Kenyan Child Burn Victim Looking for Host Family in Boston

URGENT: Kenyan burn victim child looking for a temporary host family in Boston

BOSTON, Mass--Stella Akoth is a bright 16 year old girl who lives in Chimelli, a small rural town in Kenya. She suffered severe burns when she was two years old from a kerosene lamp explosion and as a result, she is disabled and is excluded from many activities that her peers enjoy.

However, an amazing story is unfolding..... After her concerned teacher contacted a local non-profit organization, a network of people came forward and now, she has an opportunity of a life time. She will be flown into Boston to receive surgery at the Shriners Hospital by a world-renown surgeon for child burn victims. Her medical expenses, living expenses, and air fare will all be provided by donors and charitable organizations.

A host family in Boston that would take Stella and her guardian in between Stella’s surgeries is the only missing piece at this point. We have 3 prospective host families but would like to have a few more on our list in case things fall through for one reason or another. (A stipend would be provided by the Children’s Burn Foundation to cover expenses.) Would you be able to host?

Stella and her guardian are due to arrive in early June. First, Stella will be seen by the surgeon to determine a plan. She will likely undergo a series of surgeries. Please provide two beds and use of a bathroom and kitchen for a maximum of a couple of months. If you could provide meals, that would be helpful.

l  A TV station in Kenya covering Stella’s story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zEgCajOODV4

l  Crowdraise funding page has more details about Stella: https://www.crowdrise.com/stellassurgery 

 Please contact Yasuko Voccio if you are interested or have any questions at ogasawara_yasuko@hotmail.com or 857-231-1254 (cell).

You can also contact the New England Kenyan Welfare Association officials for more information at: 

978-809-5560, 781-953-2490

Thank you for your interest. 

Team Stella