Entepesi Kenya began with three of the four founders attending medical camp and seeing the large gaps in healthcare. Together, the four had the idea to serve Kenyan communities with quality healthcare through partnerships with the Ministry of Health. In 2021, Entepesi Kenya was officially registered as an NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) in Kenya. Our speaker this week, Samantha Shackleton, is one of the four founders, as well as a former resident of Sycamore.
The area served by Entepesi Kenya has a population of 1.4M people, but just one nurse per 1,068, one public health staff member per 7,619, and one doctor per 26K. In just its third year as an NGO, the organization is making significant impacts in serving this population. Following are some details for 2023:
- 15 medical outreaches & education events
- 2268 people diagnosed & treated for basic diseases
- 1706 females given education on sexual health
- 3497 packs of sanitary pads donated
- 113 staff receiving continuing education on health topics
- 58 community members trained on mental health
- 4 stakeholder meetings for county development
- 20 hypertension education & screening events
- 731 people screened for hypertension
The organization is hoping to continue expanding its work in the above areas, but also to invest in the creation of a cancer research and treatment center, a resource not currently availability to residents. Those inspired to support Entepesi Kenya's efforts can make a donation through their website (www.entepesikeyna.org/donate) using PayPal or by mailing a check to Samantha, Shackleton, 497 Charleston Drive, New Lenox, IL 60451.