In the heart of Kenya’s Kwale County, a remarkable story of innovation and compassion is unfolding. It’s the story of Home Street Home (HSH) and the Kalevala Training Center (KTC), two entities working in harmony to uplift communities through sustainable, self-sufficient initiatives. This Nordic-inspired project, bolstered by Swiss support, is a shining example of how dedicated individuals can create lasting change with minimal reliance on traditional philanthropy.
HSH, a registered non-profit in Finland, Kenya, and Switzerland, is committed to fostering education, health, and social welfare. At the core of its mission is the HSH Center in Makongeni village, a vibrant hub offering a diverse range of services tailored to the community’s needs. These services are designed to empower women and girls to find work, build security, and thrive.
One of the most impactful components of the HSH Center is the Kalevala Training Center. Established in partnership with the Finnish jewelry company Kalevala Koru, the KTC provides invaluable vocational training to young women in hairdressing, tailoring, and computer literacy. This training equips them with practical skills, opening doors to employment and entrepreneurship.
Beyond vocational training, the HSH Center also houses a Community Health Clinic, a lifeline for underserved populations. The clinic provides essential medical care, addressing critical health needs within the community. Recognizing the importance of early childhood development, the center also offers early education programs, including a playgroup for 3-year-olds, a pre-primary class for 4-year-olds, and daycare for children with special needs, ensuring that even the youngest members of the community receive a strong foundation for future success.
The Ubunifu Workshop is another innovative initiative within the HSH Center. This creativity workshop fosters entrepreneurship by producing handmade crafts that are then sold, generating revenue while providing artisans with a sustainable income. This ingenious approach not only empowers individuals economically but also celebrates local talent and creativity.
Complementing these programs is a Library and Creativity Space, providing resources that support education and encourage community-led innovation. This space serves as a catalyst for learning, collaboration, and the development of new ideas.
HSH’s work is deeply aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a strong emphasis on gender equality, quality education, and social inclusion. This commitment to global goals underscores the organization’s dedication to creating a more just and equitable world.
Since its inception, HSH has achieved remarkable results. The Kalevala Training Center alone has graduated 398 young women since 2020, with an impressive 80% securing employment, starting businesses, continuing their education, or obtaining internships. This initiative is transforming lives by fostering self-sufficiency and long-term economic independence.
The Community Health Clinic is also making a significant impact, improving public health outcomes and providing specialized care for children with developmental disabilities. HSH’s early childhood education programs are ensuring that young children, including those with special needs, receive foundational learning in a supportive environment.
What sets HSH apart is its commitment to sustainable funding. Unlike many non-profits that rely heavily on external donations, HSH has achieved 70% financial sustainability through revenue-generating activities. This innovative funding model reduces donor dependency and ensures long-term operational stability. Key revenue sources include the Ubunifu Workshop, service-based revenue from daycare and vocational programs, and strategic corporate partnerships, particularly with Kalevala Koru.
Kalevala Koru, a Finnish jewelry company with a long-standing commitment to cultural preservation and social responsibility, plays a crucial role in supporting HSH. The company contributes one-third of its profits to charitable causes, including fully funding the Kalevala Training Center.
The center employs local staff, including six teachers and support personnel, ensuring community ownership and alignment with Kenya’s official education system. Graduates receive nationally recognized certificates, enhancing their employment prospects.
To date, 543 young women have graduated from the Kalevala Training Centre, with 78% finding employment, founding companies, continuing their studies, or receiving internships. These statistics are a testament to the transformative power of the KTC and its commitment to empowering women.
Looking ahead, Home Street Home and the Kalevala Training Center remain dedicated to creating lasting, positive change through social justice, economic sustainability, and international collaboration. Their innovative blend of revenue generation and philanthropic support serves as a model for sustainable community development worldwide. By empowering women and girls, improving healthcare, and fostering education, HSH is building a more equitable future for all, one community at a time.
You can see the “Spiral of Change” documentary on their website – this further illustrates these achievements, sharing firsthand stories of how HSH initiatives have transformed lives.
