Suqoon Collaborates with Partners to Empower Older Adults in Kola, Machakos County

EMPOWERING ELDERS

Suqoon, alongside Taiba Medical, Healing Lives, CHASP, Abijeeth, and Mother Mercy Parish, successfully conducted a two-day outreach program in Kola, Machakos County, Kenya, on February 3rd, 2024.

DAY TWO HIGHLIGHTS

Food Distribution: Suqoon, in collaboration with Abhijeethand Healing Lives Foundation, distributed essential food packs to 250 families of older persons in the area. This initiative ensured immediate support for vulnerable community members.
Empowering Through OPAs: Meetings were held with community leaders including Chief Ziporrah, to discuss the establishment of Older Persons Associations (OPAs). Suqoon and Martha, representing Suqoon, along with Titus Abworo from the Aging Concern Foundation (ACF), presented the concept and benefits of OPAs. These associations offer a platform for older adults to voice their concerns, access resources, and engage in social activities.
Building Collaboration: Community leaders expressed their strong support and commitment to collaborating in forming OPAs. They acknowledged the value of OPAs in addressing the needs of older persons and fostering a more inclusive community.
Intergenerational Focus: Recognizing the importance of intergenerational understanding and support, it was decided that the OPAs would be open to both older adults and younger community members. This approach fosters stronger ties within the community and ensures the long-term sustainability of the OPAs.
Action Plan and Follow-up: Each OPA group will conduct a needs assessment to identify key areas where they can focus their efforts. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for March 3rd, where ACF and Suqoon will meet with proposed OPA leaders and their groups to discuss the needs assessments and develop action plans.

OUTCOMES & CONCLUSIONS

Outcomes:

250 families received essential food supplies.
Commitment secured from community leaders to establish and collaborate on OPAs.
Intergenerational approach adopted for sustainable and inclusive OPAs.
A clear path was established with needs assessments and a follow-up meeting planned.

Conclusion:

The Kola outreach program effectively addressed immediate needs through food distribution while laying the groundwork for long-term support through the establishment of OPAs. The collaborative approach, intergenerational focus, and planned needs assessments position the OPAs to be impactful and sustainable, empowering older adults in Kola and fostering a stronger, more inclusive community.