Why We Exist
Amani Sasa is an East African-led organization that exists to provide comprehensive, trauma-informed care and empowerment to vulnerable families in Kampala.
We combine healing with practical empowerment: trauma counseling, education, vocational training, housing support, and pathways to economic self-sufficiency. Our vision is simple: when families experience healing, stability, and are equipped with skills, they can support themselves and live into their full God-given potential. Through this work, we are breaking cycles of trauma, poverty, and violence.
375+
WOMEN, MEN AND CHILDREN SERVED THROUGH AMANI SASA SHELTERS.
650+
FAMILIES SERVED ANNUALLY THROUGH AMANI SASA PROGRAMS
2500+
PEOPLE IMPACTED ANNUALLY THROUGH AMANI SASA PROGRAMS
Empowered
to
Lead
Over half of our staff are graduates from our own programs.
Our Approach To Holistic Care
At Amani Sasa, we believe that healing and empowerment look different for different people. Thats why we offer four integrated programs, each designed to meet families and individuals where they are in their journey. All of our programs are grounded in the same holistic approach: we address immediate crisis needs, provide trauma healing and counseling, equip people with skills and opportunities leading to long-term family and community transformation.
CHILDREN’S PROGRAM
Care for unaccompanied minors and children in crisis
We believe every child deserves safety, education, and the opportunity to thrive. Our Children’s Program provides:
Nursery and child development center – Ensuring that infants and toddlers are safe, have an opportunity to heal and grow
Shelter for unaccompanied minors – Safe housing and comprehensive support (launching 2027)
Scholarships – Educational support for refugee and vulnerable Ugandan children from pre-school through high school
Trauma-informed care – Counseling and support tailored to children’s developmental needs
MPENDWA SHELTER PROGRAM
Care for young adults (ages 17–25) in crisis
Young adults in Uganda face unique vulnerabilities—many are homeless, young parents, and have experienced significant abuse and violence. Mpendwa, meaning "beloved" in Swahili, reflects our commitment to providing sanctuary, safety, and restoration. Our Mpendwa Shelters provide
Two separate shelters – One for women and children, one for men
Emergency housing and care – Safety, food, medical support, and protection
Trauma healing – Individual counseling, group therapy, and spiritual support
Skills and economic empowerment – Vocational training, business training, and transition assistance
Pathway to independence – Support as residents transition to self-sufficiency, including start-up housing supplies, rent down payment, and business capital
COMMUNITY SERVICE PROGRAM
Care for families and individuals in crisis
Vulnerable families need comprehensive support in order to heal and get on their feet. Our Community Services Program provides:
Emergency assistance – Food, medical care, housing support, and emergency protection
Trauma counseling – Individual and group therapy for families and individuals
Economic empowerment – Vocational training, business training, and start-up capital
Ongoing support – Helping families stabilize and build sustainable livelihoods
ALUMNI PROGRAM
Care for graduates of Amani Sasa programs
Graduation is not the end—it’s a new beginning. Our Alumni Program provides ongoing support:
Counseling and mentorship – Continued emotional and spiritual support
Savings and empowerment groups – Led by alumni themselves, these groups provide peer support and financial literacy
Scholarships – Support for ongoing vocational training and university education
Leadership opportunities – Many alumni go on to serve as staff at Amani Sasa, becoming leaders in their communities
Make an impact
We couldn’t do the work we do without the generous support of donors, volunteers, advocates and cheerleaders (like you!). You gift will provide hope, healing, and restoration to the most vulnerable refugees in our community.