Wendy’s Wanderers’ most recent group trip to Kenya has been filled with unforgettable wildlife encounters, shared experiences and the strong sense of camaraderie the Wanderers trips are known for. But for many on the journey, the most meaningful moment came away from the safari tracks.
On Friday 6 February, the group visited The Footprints Family, a UK-registered charity supporting orphaned and vulnerable children in rural Kenya. The visit had been arranged as a special part of the Wanderers itinerary, offering the group the chance to see first-hand the impact of a charity that has close ties to Wendy’s hometown of Burton. The Footprints Family was founded by Kerry Watson, who first travelled to Kenya as a volunteer in 2007. Moved by the resilience of children living without basic support, Kerry went on to establish what is now known as Mama Kerry’s Place, a safe and nurturing environment at the foot of the Shimba Hills. Today, the charity provides food, education, healthcare and long-term support to children and young people, without any government
funding.
The Wanderers arrived bearing three suitcases filled with essential supplies and donations collected in the UK. While I was unable to attend the visit in person following my accident, I joined the group via FaceTime alongside Kerry, allowing everyone to share the experience together in real time. “It has been incredibly special to welcome Wendy’s Wanderers to Footprints on their trip. To watch our Footprints children and staff with people from my own town and show them what 18 years of faith, perseverance and love has built is incredibly special. This visit reminded me that Footprints has always been a shared journey, from home to here.
Knowing that people from my local community have travelled to bring wonderful donations of much-needed items and see the impact of 18 years of work
first-hand is deeply moving and affirming. Their visit highlights the powerful link between local communities in the UK and the lives being transformed here in
Kenya.”— Mama Kerry, Founder, The Footprints Family
Not only was the experience beneficial for the children in the orphanage, but it was also a transformative experience for the Wanderers who visited.
“Footprints was a very humbling experience,” said one of the Wanderers, “but it was also amazing to see the children being given such a great opportunity to go to a school where they are looked after and supported throughout their childhood. A truly joyous place where they are also taught how to be independent and learn skills that will help them in their adult lives, such as structure and how to take care of themselves. Our children really do not know how lucky they are.”
Another Wanderer commented, “Our visit to Footprints, it was lovely to see a group of children safe, supported, being educated and gaining life skills. A privilege to visit and see the work being invested to change lives.”
Finally, another said, “The visit to Footprints was so emotional from start to finish, from the welcome dance by the children, the interaction with the children throughout their day. Lucky for us, we went on their fun day of the month. Seeing them so happy made my heart melt. Anyone considering this trip, just do it. You will never regret it and will have long-lasting memories, as I do.”
The visit marked the continuation of a long-standing commitment to charitable causes, including our ongoing work with Me and Dee. I have also pledged to make donations to The Footprints Family through future bookings and am already exploring opportunities for volunteering and continued support.
The group’s involvement has not stopped there. Since returning, we have begun organising raffle events and coffee mornings to raise further funds, helping to support a charity that relies entirely on the generosity of individuals and communities.
The visit was just the beginning of a valued friendship and collaboration between Wendy Haines Travel, Wendy’s Wanderers and The Footprints Family.
For those who took part, the experience offered a powerful reminder of why travel can be about so much more than seeing new places. It is about connection, understanding and using shared journeys to make a meaningful difference, both abroad and back home.
If anyone would like to visit Footprints as a volunteer or visitor we can arrange to book flights and add on a safari and/or beach stay. Get in touch to find out more
