The Bough Foundation
Showing the love of Christ to those in need & committed to transforming lives.
We are a Christian non-profit organization based in Nairobi, Kenya. Our goal is not only to meet physical needs but also offer them hope by sharing the unconditional love of Jesus with those lives we touch.We are driven by the call to care for the needy and share Christ's love with all nations.
We focus on the complex and challenging problem of poverty in the country of Kenya, working directly with communities, looking into their struggles and researching how we can most effectively make a difference in their lives.
Current Programs
Feeding the homeless
The Bough Foundation has adopted a homeless family living on Crescent Lane in Nairobi. We have partnered with a local hotel that has committed to providing this family with one hot meal a day. We believe it is important to teach them to become self-reliant, self-supporting, and contributing members of society. We also believe that true transformation comes through Jesus Christ, so we share His Word with them as well.
Wells of Hope
In Partnership with DOTERRA HEALING HANDS The Bough Foundation recently completed a well project in the Bande Community in Migori County providing them with clean and safe drinking water. We hope this is the first of several well projects.
The project aims to reduce incidences of waterborne illnesses among children while also easing the burden of long treks for women in search of water.
Child Sponsorship
There are many challenges that school children face in Kenya. We do several projects to help support the next generation.
TBF is launching child sponsorship program. Many families struggle to pay their school fees and we give you the opportunity to support the children in the most desperate need.
We also supply children with school materials, shoes, and Bibles. Lastly, many school age girls do not have the means to take care of their sanitary needs, so we do sanitary pad drive to help in this matter.
Small Business Loans
The project empowers small businesses in Nairobi, Kenya, by providing easy loans at an interest rate of 5%, along with flexible repayment periods of up to 6 months.
The small business owners also receive training on utilizing technology and digital platforms for effective marketing and growth strategies, enabling them to expand and develop their enterprises. We bridge the existing knowledge gap in the local market, furnishing entrepreneurs with the necessary skills to tap into Kenya's thriving online marketplace.
Core Values
Compassion
Demonstrating empathy and kindness towards individuals and communities struggling with poverty, and providing support that addresses their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
Empowerment
Equipping individuals and communities with the skills, resources, and opportunities needed to break free from poverty and build sustainable futures.
Servanthood
Recognizing that serving others is a central tenet of Christian faith, and humbly working to lift up and support those in need, rather than seeking to elevate oneself.
Stewardship
Faithfully managing the resources entrusted to the organization, maximizing impact and minimizing waste, and being transparent about finances and operations.
Collaboration
Building partnerships with other organizations, churches, and community groups to amplify efforts and create lasting change.
Integrity
Conducting all aspects of the organization's work with honesty, transparency, and accountability, and avoiding any actions that might compromise the integrity of the organization or the people it serves.
Respect
Treating all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of their background, culture, religion, or economic status, and recognizing the inherent worth and value of every person.
Hope
Believing in the transformative power of hope and the possibility of positive change, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Love
Motivated by Christ's love and compassion, demonstrating unconditional love and acceptance to those served, and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and loved.
Child Sponsorship
"Whatever you do for the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did it to me" Matt 25:40bThere is no free public schooling in Kenya. Many families are not able to pay the fees to send their children to school. The Bough Foundation interviews and reviews each families to look closely at each situation. Many of the children listed below are orphans or living in single-parent homes.Our goal is to help the children who are in the most desperate situations.
Mollenter Akoth
Meet 16-year-old Mollenter Akoth, a bright and determined girl from Nyatike, Migori County, Kenya, attending Chamachichi Secondary School. An orphan, she lives with her sickly 78-year-old grandmother, who cannot work. Yet Mollenter remains committed to her education and dreams of a brighter future. She urgently needs support to complete school. Your sponsorship can transform her life, helping her reach her potential and break the cycle of poverty. Together, we can make a difference.
Brenda Awuor
Meet Brenda Awuor, a 15-year-old student at Othoo Secondary School in Nyatike, Migori County, Kenya. A partial orphan, she lives with her mother and grandmother, both battling long-term illnesses. Despite these challenges, Brenda stays focused on her education, determined to build a better future for herself and her family. But medical expenses and daily needs make it hard to continue school without support. With your help, Brenda can overcome these obstacles. Your sponsorship can give her the chance to complete her education and achieve her dreams.
Rachael Akinyi Ochuonyo
Meet Rachael Akinyi Ochuonyo, a talented, ambitious 15-year-old student at Othaya Girls High School. From the underserved Dandora Settlements in Nairobi, Kenya, she has defied the odds to pursue her education despite growing up in an underprivileged family and community. Her determination and academic potential reflect her resilience and drive for a better future, yet financial constraints threaten her progress. Your sponsorship can empower her to rise above her circumstances and achieve her dreams.
Peter Odhimabo Ooko
Meet Peter Odhimabo Ooko, a resilient 16-year-old orphan from Ulando Secondary School. Despite losing his father at a young age, Peter remains focused on his education, determined to build a better future for himself. He faces significant challenges accessing basic needs and school resources, yet his unwavering dedication to learning shines through. Your sponsorship can empower Peter to overcome obstacles and achieve his dreams. Together, we can help him reach his full potential.
Brighton Obama Meshack
Meet Brighton Obama Meshack, a 15-year-old from Migori County, Kenya, whose life took a difficult turn after losing his father, the family's sole breadwinner. Now his unemployed mother struggles to feed Brighton and his siblings while keeping him in school. Despite these hardships, Brighton remains determined to excel and build a better future for his family. Your sponsorship can be the turning point, giving him the chance to achieve his dreams and break the cycle of poverty. Together, we can help Brighton build a brighter tomorrow.
Trezzy Awuor Ongeri
Meet Trezzy Awuor Ongeri, a bright and talented student at Ulando Secondary School in Nyatike, Migori County, Kenya. Despite the heartbreaking loss of both her parents, Trezzy has shown remarkable resilience and dedication to her studies. With no immediate family to support her, she faces immense challenges in accessing basic needs and educational resources. Trezzy is in desperate need of sponsorship to continue her education and turn her dreams into reality. Your support can provide her with the lifeline she needs to overcome adversity and build a brighter future.
Our Projects
We work with communities to co-design initiatives that prioritize sustainability measures from the outset, ensuring long-term impact and self-sufficiency. We expand collaborations, support local knowledge and talents to provide solutions to poverty challenges.
Wells of Hope
Nyatike, Migori County - Kenya
The Bough Foundation in Partnership with DOTERRA HEALING HANDS is working with the Bande Community in Nyatike Sub-County to provide clean and safe drinking water through the drilling of water boreholes, and the development of distribution channels to improve access.The project aims to reduce incidences of waterborne illnesses affecting children, improving their health and learning in schools. Freeing more time for women and girls who spend long hours fetching water, allowing better engagement income generating ventures, and better attendance of school for girls.
Micro enterprise Support project
Nairobi, Kenya
The Micro Enterprise Support Project, launched by The Bough Foundation, aims to empower small businesses in Nairobi, Kenya, by providing them with access to information, technology, and financial resources. Despite their resilience, many small businesses in Nairobi struggle to grow and develop, often due to limited access to resources and knowledge.This project seeks to bridge that gap by offering training and tools related to information access and technology, to help entrepreneurs improve their operations, increase efficiency, and enhance decision-making capabilities. Additionally, the project will investigate the effectiveness of extremely low- or zero-interest loans in encouraging small business owners to borrow and invest in their ventures.
Food for the Homeless Initiative
Nairobi, Kenya
Feeding the Homeless Initiative is a compassion project in Nairobi providing nutritious meals to homeless individuals who often go without food. In partnership with large hotels, The Bough Foundation redirects excess food from businesses to feed the most vulnerable. Currently run with WESTLANDS BANQUET LIMITED, the project targets the most deserving cases in Westlands District. By rescuing surplus food, this initiative combats waste while alleviating hunger and malnutrition among the homeless. Through this effort, The Bough Foundation restores hope and dignity to those forgotten.
Tackling period poverty
Nairobi, Kajiado, Migori Counties- Kenya
This is a comprehensive campaign to address period poverty and promote attitude change around cultural shame attached to menstruation. We also work with communities to tackle local challenges linked to poverty such as environmental conservation. Due to period poverty, 1 in 10 girls is out of school and disempowered in sub-Saharan Africa. Promoting menstrual equity is key to supporting women and young girls. This program aims to provide immediate relief to those in need while also working towards long-term solutions to eliminate period poverty.
An integrated approach to combating Climate Change in Kenya.
Working towards addressing the impacts of climate change, particularly in vulnerable communities living in arid and semi-arid lands. The Bough Foundation is working to identify existing strengths and assets to innovate in eco-projects to reduce the impact of climate change through Community-based adaptation, Renewable energy promotion, Promotion of Climate-smart agriculture, Climate education and awareness, Climate-resilient water management, and Ecosystem-based adaptation.By working closely with local communities and leveraging partnerships with government agencies, businesses, and other stakeholders, TBF aims to significantly enhance its contribution to national, regional, and global efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change.
Who we are
Driven by the call to care for the needy and share Christ's love with all nations, The Bough Foundation represents the sturdy branch of the tree (society) that supports and nurtures the growth of those around us. Just as a tree's bough provides nourishment, shelter, and protection of life through its fruits and leaves, we seek to invest in the dreams of those in need, fostering their development and empowering them to flourish.Ultimately, we work to cultivate a thriving forest of hope and possibility, where everyone can grow and thrive under the protective canopy of love and support. Just as the bough of an olive tree grows stronger with each passing season, so do we aspire to build a society that becomes increasingly robust and vibrant, its branches reaching ever higher to embrace the beauty and diversity of life.
Mission
Reducing extreme poverty and increasing equal opportunities through investments in the dreams of needy communities while sharing the Love of Christ.
Vision
Empowered communities overcoming poverty, enjoying life and peace in the Love of Christ.
Meet the Team
Winnie Rachael MSc
Founder
Naaman Ochieng
Secretary & Co-Founder
Sheila Omondi
Project Officer
We work through
Research
Research helps TBF programming to identify and showcase positive elements in a community context, include diverse perspectives, facilitate data-driven dialogue, foster collaboration, and enable continuous learning. TBF utilizes research to highlight strengths and successes, informing discussions and co-creation among stakeholders.
Application of research helps us measure the long-term impact of interventions and identifying factors for sustainability.
Human-centred designs
TBF works from research-generated background knowledge to identify specific challenges and understand their causes and impacts. We tackle Poverty while keeping an eye on Gender Inequality, Ethnic discrimination, Social Exclusion, and Marginalization as well as Cultural biases. Our Human-centred approach puts the needs and aspirations of people at the center of the design process. We focus on the experiences, desires, and contexts of the people being served, then work with them to co-create solutions that meet their needs. This design leads to innovative solutions that are more effective and sustainable.
Compassion
Through compassion, we understand the struggles of those in need, build trust, and address the root causes of poverty. We promote dignity, hope, and resilience while encouraging collective action. We reduce shame and stigma, build the foundation to advocate for policy change and guide ethical leadership.
TBF cultivates gratitude and appreciation while helping create a more content and fulfilled society, while also working to promote the psychological well-being of afflicted beneficiaries to reduce risk factors to their success and potential to thrive.
Contact us
WELLS OF HOPE PROJECT
Clean Water. Restored Dignity. Transformed Lives.In many rural communities across Kenya, access to clean water is still a daily struggle.Women and girls walk long distances to fetch unsafe water—often missing school and opportunities. Families are exposed to waterborne and non-communicable diseases linked to poor water and sanitation, while entire communities lose valuable time each day in search of this basic necessity.At The Bough Foundation (TBF), we are changing this reality.Through the Wells of Hope Project, we are creating sustainable access to safe, clean water—bringing it closer to homes, schools, and communities. This restores health, keeps children in school, and gives women back their time and dignity.In Bande, Migori County, our project is already making a difference:
Providing clean water to 2,000+ peopleEstablishing 3 community water points, including one in a schoolSupporting school attendance, especially for girlsReducing water-related illnessesSaving hours spent walking long distances for water
PHASE 1: DRILLING & WELL DEVELOPMENT (2023)
A Successful Source of LifeIn 2023, The Bough Foundation successfully drilled a high-yield borehole in Bande, Migori County, a major milestone in restoring hope to the community.
This achievement was made possible through the generous support of doTERRA Healing Hands Foundation, whose funding enabled us to:
Conduct hydrogeological surveysDrill and strike a reliable water sourceInstall a protective casing to secure the wellTest and confirm the safety of the water
What was once a water-scarce area is now home to a sustainable and reliable water source, the beginning of lasting transformation.
PHASE 2: SOLAR INSTALLATION & COMMUNITY CONNECTION (2025–2026
Having water underground is not enough; it must reach the people.Between 2025 and 2026, the Bough Foundation focused on connecting the community to this life-saving resource. Through dedicated fundraising efforts, alongside continued support from doTERRA Healing Hands Foundation, we successfully implemented:
Installation of solar-powered pumping systems for a sustainable, reliable water supplyPiping water across the community to reach homes and shared spacesConstruction of safe and accessible community water points
This phase marked the true transformation, when water moved from being a distant resource to a daily reality within reach.The system was recently launched, enabling us to achieve our goal of serving over 2,000 people, including families and school-going children.
WHY IT MATTERS
Water changes everythingIt keeps girls in school.It protects families from disease.It restores time, dignity, and opportunity.
One well. One community. Thousands of lives transformed.
Join us in bringing clean water to more communities.“Before this project, I used to miss school because I had to help my family fetch water early in the morning. Sometimes the water was dirty, and we still had no choice. Now, water is close to our school, and I can attend classes every day. I want to become a doctor one day so I can help my community too.”School Learner, Bande Community.
The Bough GreenRoots Initiative
Growing livelihoods.Restoring nature. Nurturing futures.Bough GreenRoots Initiative is a community-based social enterprise of The Bough Foundation, established in Bande to turn access to water into sustainable livelihoods, environmental restoration and opportunity.We are building a community seedling nursery producing fruit, indigenous, agroforestry and vegetable seedlings for farmers, schools, organisations and communities. Beyond growing seedlings, GreenRoots is about growing people, creating income, practical skills and entrepreneurship opportunities for local women and youth.
With the potential to serve over 2,000 people in the community, the initiative aims to create a sustainable cycle where water supports production, production creates livelihoods, and livelihoods strengthen the community.
What We Grow
Fruit seedlings
Indigenous trees
Agroforestry seedlings
Vegetable seedlings
Other locally suitable plants
Growing More Than Seedlings
GreenRoots will provide women and young people with hands-on training in nursery management, sustainable agriculture, agribusiness and entrepreneurship, enabling them to build skills and generate income.Our vision is simple: to grow a healthier, greener and more economically empowered community — one seedling, one livelihood and one family at a time.
Join Us
Whether you are a farmer, school, organisation, corporate, conservation partner or individual, you can support GreenRoots by buying seedlings, partnering with us, sponsoring a community grower or supporting the expansion of the nursery.
Together, we can plant more than trees. We can plant opportunity.