Binance, a cryptocurrency exchange, has pledged $100,000 in partnership with the Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) to help communities in Kenya struggling due to recent challenges, including the severe floods earlier this year.
The 6-month program, running from September 2024 to February 2025, will provide emergency food relief to over 45,000 students in 40 primary schools across hard-hit counties, particularly in areas like Baringo County to ease the hardships faced by families where flooding, drought, and conflict have disrupted lives and education. Binance will provide meals to boost school attendance and support parents dealing with these difficulties.
“We are committed to using our resources to make a positive impact in communities around the world,” says Samantha Fuller, Head of Communications for Binance in the Middle East and Africa. “The challenges faced by families in Kenya have intensified recently, and we hope that our contribution will help alleviate some of the suffering. We are proud to partner with the Kenya Red Cross Society to ensure that children have access to both food and education.”
Baringo County, among other regions, has been severely affected, with school infrastructure and access to education compromised. Many children have been displaced or forced to drop out due to the combined effects of several crises. Through this program, the partnership aims to encourage children to return to school, thereby supporting both their education and well-being.
With Binance’s funding, KRCS will support over 45 000 pupils (approximately 9% of the total school population in the county) through a school meal program over two primary school terms. The program includes school verification, food procurement, distribution, and post-distribution monitoring. The food basket will consist of rice, beans, cooking oil, salt, and super cereals (Uji Mix), providing essential nutrition to the affected children.
“The provision of school meals is a crucial part of our strategy to help families overcome the many difficulties they face,” says Jow Otieno, Senior Relief Coordinator at KRCS. “We appreciate Binance’s generous support in helping us address these urgent needs, and we are committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to continue their education during these challenging times.”
The initiative aims to provide critical support to vulnerable populations, ensuring that students in affected areas can meet their basic food needs, improve their nutrition, and maintain regular school attendance.