In February 2025, OLPS, one of Blood:Water’s HIV partners based in Kisumu County, Western Kenya, received a wonderful gift of play – a fully equipped playground for its students. The playground was donated and installed by Elevation Church and Kids Around The World (KATW) through their partnership with Blood:Water.

OLPS provides need-based care and support to over 5,000 children impacted by HIV/AIDS, including 583 who are on lifelong HIV treatment. As part of its Orphans and Vulnerable Children Program (“OVCs” are individuals younger than 18 years of age, orphaned, or made vulnerable due to HIV), OLPS also runs a school that serves 157 learners who struggle to learn in typical classroom settings and require more time and individual attention to achieve positive learning outcomes.

Beyond the services provided by OLPS as described above, children’s mental health is critical during this formative phase. Play is one of the most transformative forces in a child’s life and also one of the most effective ways to support children’s psychosocial wellbeing. It helps children develop, learn, and cope with challenging situations as it aids in renewing their agency, connection, self-confidence, and belonging.

On average, school-going children spend over 52% of their time during the day in schools, making them an essential point of service and care. OVCs live in households that are made increasingly vulnerable, bearing a heavy emotional burden. When children get stuck in “fight or flight” mode, it can cause long-lasting changes in the brain and body and these stressors inhibit brain development and a child’s ability to learn thereby limiting their future.

The new playground offers a safe and inclusive space where children can play, build friendships, and develop essential social skills.

The playground was officially launched on March 7th in a joyful ceremony attended by representatives from Blood:Water, OLPS, the Ministry of Education, students from OLPS and nearby schools, and members of the local community. On the children’s faces as they rushed into the playground for the first time is a beautiful reminder of the value of play in children’s development.

Thank you, Elevation Church and Kids Around The World, for this generous donation and for bringing joy to these children’s lives.