Lances Deaf Orphans- Campus Development

Transforming Lives: The Growth of Lances Deaf Orphans (LDO) in Kenya

In 2022, Deaf Child Hope celebrated a major milestone: the completion of a new dormitory and classroom building at Lances Deaf Orphans (LDO) near Kissi, Kenya. This project has significantly improved the quality of life for around 30 deaf orphans who live full-time on the LDO campus. In this blog, we’ll explore the journey of LDO—from its beginnings to the present—and share our hopes for its future expansion.

A Mission to Support Deaf Orphans in Kenya

More than 14 years ago, a Colorado man named Lance traveled to Kenya on a mission trip. As a deaf individual himself, he witnessed firsthand the immense struggles that deaf children living in poverty face. Many were without families, homes, or access to education. Feeling called to take action, Lance returned with a mission: to create a safe haven for these orphaned deaf children.

Starting from scratch, Lance and his team purchased land and built temporary dormitories and essential structures by hand. Every penny needed for land and materials was raised through dedicated fundraising efforts. Over time, Deaf Child Hope (DCH) joined the mission, helping secure sponsorships that provided consistent funding for the children’s education, care, and daily needs. Eventually, DCH assumed full fiscal responsibility for the children, staff, and operations at LDO.

The Evolution of the LDO Campus

When LDO first began, children had minimal resources—many lacked shoes, clothing, beds, and other essentials. However, generous donors stepped in, supplying beds, mattresses, school uniforms, and everyday necessities. Infrastructure improvements followed, transforming the campus into a more sustainable environment:

• Kitchen Facilities: Initially, cooking was done outdoors. Over time, an indoor kitchen was built, followed by a second, more advanced kitchen.
• Sanitation Improvements: Restroom facilities evolved from in-ground toilets to improved sanitation structures.
• Water Access: For years, children and staff walked half a mile to collect water from a spring. In 2018, a major fundraising campaign enabled the construction of a well, solar-powered pump, and a water tower to ensure a reliable water supply.
• Campus Security: That same year, funding was secured for a front gate, greatly enhancing the safety of the children and staff.

A Landmark Achievement: The New Dormitory and Classrooms

One of the most significant milestones at LDO was the construction of a new dormitory and classroom building, completed in 2022. This structure provides separate dormitories for boys and girls, along with modern classrooms. For the first time ever, the children now have access to electricity, tiled floors, and indoor plumbing—including showers and toilets.

The fundraising campaign for this project launched in early 2021, with the goal of raising funds over the course of the year. Astonishingly, nearly all the funds were secured within just six weeks—an incredible testament to the generosity of donors and the urgency of this mission. The building also includes a concrete walkway, and solar power is being installed to provide sustainable energy for the entire campus.

Looking Ahead: Expanding to Serve More Deaf Children

As we celebrate these achievements, we also look to the future. There are still many deaf orphans in Kenya who need a safe place to live, learn, and thrive. The neighboring property next to LDO is undeveloped farmland—an ideal location for campus expansion. We have approached the landowner with a request to purchase the property, but we are awaiting a response. Your prayers and support are crucial as we navigate this next step.

If you feel called to be part of this mission, we invite you to join us. Deaf Child Hope leads annual mission trips to LDO, offering an opportunity to connect with and support these incredible children. For an orphaned deaf child in Kenya, knowing that someone from across the world cares about them is life-changing.

Together, we can continue making a difference—one life, one project, and one prayer at a time.