Donation of clothing required for Nakuru in Kenya
In May 2026, Luke Newman from Potton, Bedfordshire, will return to Nakuru, Kenya for his eleventh humanitarian trip. His mission remains the same—to support children and families in one of the poorest suburbs through his work with West End Destiny Kids Academy.
Each year, Luke joins a dedicated team of volunteers to improve both the school and the lives of the children who attend it. This year, however, there is an urgent need for something simple but essential—clothing.
The team is appealing for donations of clothes for boys and girls aged 3–15. Items needed include shirts, trousers, jeans, socks, and new underwear. These basic items can make a real difference to children who often go without. A collection point has been kindly provided by Preen, making it easy for the local community to contribute. (Preen, Unit 2, Shortmead Industrial Estate, Sun Street, Biggleswade, SG18 0BP). Please combine in a plastic sealed bag, marked 'Rams in Kenya'.
Luke will not be travelling alone. He will be joined by over 70 volunteers from Derby County Community Trust, working in partnership with African Adventures. Among the group will be members of his own family, including his father Steve, brother Paul, and nephew Max. This shared experience highlights not just the importance of the work, but the personal commitment behind it.
Over the years, Luke’s building work in Nakuru has developed into a structured and practical effort. What started as small contributions has grown into meaningful improvements to the school’s infrastructure. Projects have included constructing and expanding classrooms and kitchens, as well as contributing to double-storey school buildings. The work also involves important finishing touches such as plastering, painting, and tiling.
Beyond the buildings themselves, the team has worked to improve the wider school environment. This includes installing ceilings, laying pathways, and creating useful spaces like firewood storage areas and bookcases. These changes help provide a safer, more organised, and more supportive place for children to learn.
Alongside collecting donations, Luke is also fundraising to cover the cost of the trip. He needs to raise over £2,500 to take part. Every donation helps make the journey possible and supports the wider project in Kenya. https://www.justgiving.com/page/lukenewmanrik26
Reflecting on the importance of the trip, Luke said: “Every time we go back, we see the difference that small acts of kindness can make. It’s not just about building classrooms—it’s about building hope and opportunity for these children.”
Outside of his humanitarian work, Luke is also the CEO of For Men To Talk. The group supports men experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and grief. It provides a safe and comfortable space to talk, whether through physical meetings, walking groups, fishing sessions, or virtual support. The organisation has continued to grow, now offering sessions across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, and beyond.
If you would like to support Luke’s trip, you can donate or contribute clothing. Every item and every pound makes a difference. https://formentotalk.co.uk/fmttken/