At The Atlas Foundation, we know that sometimes the most important stories don’t come through formal channels; they are found in everyday places, in quiet corners, in moments of honesty.
This is the story of Evans.
Evans is 15 years old and lives in Kitale, Kenya. He’s small for his age, quick on his feet, and has a warm, playful nature that draws people in. But behind his smile is a reality that most people never see.
We first learned about Evans through his cousin, Salome – one of the incredible girls supported through our local partner, Little Sports Organisation (LSO). Salome is thriving at Kitale Primary School thanks to a scholarship and support provided by LSO and Atlas.
When we realised Evans was part of her extended family, we began to suspect he too might be facing challenges. But nothing prepared us for what we discovered.
Pictured: Salome, Cousin to Evans
One of LSO’s coaches, Carson, was at the local market when he saw Evans in a place most people overlook; a corner where unsellable, rotting vegetables are dumped. There, Evans was alone, sorting through the scraps. Embarrassed, he made an excuse and tried to laugh it off. But the next day, he came back, and told the truth.
Evans lives with his mother. He has no father. His mum works long hours every day of the week for the equivalent of just £36 per month. From that, they pay rent, about £8, and still have to cover food, school supplies, and basic needs. They don’t have running water or electricity. Water is bought in small amounts, carried home in jerrycans. Medical care is out of reach. Some days, there’s no food. On others, they eat just once, at night, if at all.
“We only ever eat at night. And even that is not a guarantee.”
But no child should have to accept hunger and hardship as normal. That’s why the meals Evans receives through Atlas-LSO sessions twice a week mean so much. These meals not only sustain Evan through unimaginable hunger, but show him that someone sees him, that someone cares.
Unfortunately, Evans’ story is not unique. Across Kenya – and the world – millions of children are growing up in silence, shouldering burdens no child should bear. But when we listen, when we act, we can make a difference.
“My mum works for an Indian boss. She gets Ksh 6,000 per month [about £36 GBP] and works all day, everyday – Monday to Sunday. We pay Ksh 1,300 [about £8 GBP] for rent.”
Evans is bright, kind, and full of potential. With the right support, he could follow in his cousin’s footsteps – into school, into stability, into a life with more hope.
Help Atlas Continue Our Work
Through your generosity, we’ve helped children like Salome. And with your continued support, we can help children like Evans too.
Together, we can turn quiet resilience into lasting change. Support The Atlas Foundation today.
