At Youth Building Synergy to End Poverty YBSP, we believe no child should be left behind not because of hunger, not for lack of education and certainly not due to circumstances beyond their control. In Burundi, too many children face the daily reality of going without food, school supplies, or emotional support. The Feed a Child program was created to address this urgent need by ensuring vulnerable children particularly those living in shelters and under-resourced communities receive consistent care to survive, grow, and thrive.
For many children, even one nutritious meal a day is a luxury. Hunger affects their ability to focus, learn, and stay healthy. That’s why Feed a child goes beyond feeding it is a holistic support program that nurtures both body and soul, providing not just meals but also educational support, hygiene items, and emotional care.
What we do:
At its core, Feed a Child delivers regular, nutritious meals and other essential items to children in need. Meals are provided in shelters and every Sunday at ECOFO Stella Matutina, where children gather not just to eat, but to be seen, heard, respected, educated and valued. These Sunday sessions create a warm environment of care, learning and community.
Beyond food, we use these gatherings to teach children about important life skills: hygiene, clean water practices, first aid, child rights and the importance of good nutrition. Weekly and monthly distributions are designed to build healthy habits and restore dignity while creating moments of joy and connection.
Following Up with Shelter Children: Jabe, Cibitoke and Gahahe
A critical part of the program is our follow-up initiative for children living in shelters, particularly in Jabe, Cibitoke and Gahahe. These shelters are home to some of the most vulnerable children in our community. Our team visits them regularly to ensure their needs are met not just with food, but with comprehensive care.
Our follow-up program includes:
- Consistent meal support, ensuring access to warm, nutritious food
- Distribution of school materials: books, backpacks, pens, uniforms and school fees.
- Provision of hygiene kits, including soap, sanitary pads for girls and clean clothes.
- Psycho-social support, offering mentorship and encouragement through trusted YBSP staff and professional therapists.
- Coordination with shelter leaders to track the children’s progress and improve living standards.
These efforts help us respond to the unique challenges each child faces, building a bridge of care and opportunity for their future.
Why it matters
The impact is real and powerful. With consistent support, children begin to shine. They arrive at school with renewed energy, better focus, and a stronger sense of self-worth. Teachers report improved performance and attendance. Most importantly, children begin to believe in the possibility of a better future.
But the journey is not without challenges. Rising food costs and limited resources make it difficult to meet growing needs. Still, our team remains committed working each day to make sure no child is left behind.
How can you help?
You can be part of this transformation. Whether by funding a week of meals, donating school supplies, or sponsoring a child in a shelter, your support goes directly to those who need it most. Together, we can create a world where every child has the chance to learn, grow, and dream.
Join us. Nourish hope. Feed a child .
