Buds of Christ Charitable Trust

Buds of Christ is dedicated to empowering children and families affected by HIV/AIDS. Grounded in a vision to “Empower Children and Enable Wellbeing,” the NGO operates with a child-rights-based approach. It strives to foster dignity, resilience, and leadership in children through the principles of love, listening, learning, and leading.

Major Interventions:

Healthcare is the cornerstone of Buds of Christ’s work. The NGO promotes treatment adherence and healthy living among children living with HIV through regular home visits, support group meetings, and individual counselling. Nutritional support, birthday celebrations, and emergency medical interventions ensure a holistic approach to wellbeing. Health education is integrated into peer group spaces, allowing children to navigate stigma and form positive identities.

Leadership and life skills are nurtured through annual camps: Buds n Colours for younger children and Overcomers for adolescents. These camps focus on themes like self-awareness, goal setting, hygiene, and emotional well-being. External experts and structured activities build self-esteem and resilience, helping children recognize their inner strength and plan their futures.

Orphan Children – Education and Support: Buds of Christ provides intensive support to orphan children, many of whom live with grandparents or extended family. Through emotional counselling, educational sponsorship, and routine follow-ups, it ensures that these children remain in school and receive the care they need. Special attention is given to issues such as grief, isolation, and neglect. Academic support includes the provision of school supplies, coaching for students who have failed public exams, and the Buds School Program for children struggling with foundational skills. The organization also steps in during crises, offering sustained encouragement to prevent dropouts.

Adolescents – HIV Awareness and Mental Health: The NGO addresses the unique vulnerabilities of HIV-positive adolescents, including mental health, relationships, and identity. Life skills sessions and peer support groups allow teens to express fears and learn coping strategies. Collaborations with government ART centres help integrate psychosocial care within medical settings, aiming to reduce stigma and improve outcomes.