Our Programs

Business Training

Most families cite poverty as the main reason for why they consider sending their children to live in an institution. With an eye to long-term sustainability, caregivers go through business training. An experienced income generation facilitator trains them in business planning, budgeting, bookkeeping, inventory, minimizing loss and maximizing profits. Learning these skills allows caregivers to rise up out of the poverty threatening family separation.

Start-Up Grant

After completing the business training course, graduates have access to a grant to cover the start-up costs for their business. Each grant is 400,000 Ugandan shilling, or about $100 USD. As this is a grant, there is no expectation or obligation for repayment, which allows the caregivers to use their profits to support their family and grow their business.

Parenting Classes

The detrimental effects that institutionalized care has on children is not widely known among families in Uganda. The parenting classes aim to share this information with caregivers, along with why children thrive when they remain with their families. Additionally, caregivers learn about child development, so that they feel better prepared to care for their children.

Ongoing Social Support

Support for families who access Zion Family Support’s services do not end when they complete the program. Trained social workers continue to track and monitor the needs and progress of all families through regular check-ins and visits. Through this ongoing support, families are able to be linked up with other social services they need and have the security of support.