Making bright futures for orphaned children.
A home of peace, belonging and opportunity.
At Shalom Home, children who once faced abandonment, hardship or trauma find more than safety — they find a family.
Here, every child is nurtured with love, guided with discipline, supported through education, and encouraged to dream beyond their past.
Shalom Home today includes two sister centres in Meru County — Shalom OVC Home and the more modest Acts of Mercy Centre — together supporting over 1,000 orphaned and vulnerable children.
What began as a simple orphanage offering shelter, food and care has grown into a vibrant school community that equips children with the skills, confidence and values they need to thrive.
For over two decades — without any government funding — we have quietly transformed the lives of hundreds of children, who are now teachers, parents, professionals and leaders, contributing meaningfully to their communities.
One unstoppable man’s vision brought to life.
Father Francis Gaciata grew up with almost nothing, yet he watched his mother open their door to children who had even less. Her effortless compassion planted a quiet, unforgettable seed — one that took root in him and still shapes Shalom Home today.
Raised in rural Kenya, Francis was surrounded by the silent tragedy of children with no food, no education and no one to love them. After seven years studying for the priesthood in Rome, he knew his mission called him back home.
He began by caring for a handful of underprivileged children in his own modest house. Then in 2004, after raising small but meaningful funds, he founded Shalom Home — his “Home of Peace” for children in need.
Under constant pressure to take in more children, Shalom quickly expanded in size, services and impact — powered entirely by donations, faith and tireless volunteers.
Today, Francis leads two sister centres that carry forward his vision — Shalom OVC Home and Acts of Mercy — each playing a vital role in caring for more than 1,000 children across Meru County.
A practical path to breaking the cycle of poverty.
The most effective way to lift children out of poverty is through education — giving young people the skills and confidence to build meaningful, independent lives.
At Shalom Home, every child receives a full education from primary to high school, with top achievers supported all the way to university.
But education here goes far beyond the classroom.
Girls learn sewing and produce the uniforms worn in the Home.
Boys learn woodworking, crafting the furniture they use every day.
Older children help care for younger ones, creating a genuine family environment that teaches responsibility, empathy and belonging.
By the time they leave, our young adults have the values, skills and purpose to contribute to safer, stronger communities across Kenya.
Investing in projects with a lasting impact
Our projects strengthen both of our sister centres — helping Shalom OVC continue to grow while bringing Acts of Mercy into a safer, more stable future.
From solar power systems that dramatically reduce energy costs to upgraded water infrastructure that secures supply for 1,000 children, each project is designed to strengthen the Home for decades to come.
Our approach is simple: invest once, reduce costs permanently, and expand our capacity to help more children thrive.
Explore our 2026 Projects & Strategy and see how each one delivers practical, high-return impact.
Together, we can ensure this work continues to grow.
Shalom Home is a 100% nonprofit, volunteer-run community.
Every contribution goes directly to the children and the work that supports them: their learning, their wellbeing, and the stability they rely on each day.
If our mission resonates with you, we invite you to explore the ways you can support this work — whether through giving, sharing our story, or simply staying connected.
