Since 2010, Happy House Children’s Home in Watamu, Kenya has been more than just a home – it’s a family you can be part of. Here, children grow up surrounded by love, laughter and the support they need to become confident, happy members of society.
You can visit us in Watamu to see our family in action, or support us from anywhere in the world. Because we are fully funded by sponsorships and donations, every gift makes a difference and helps give our children a brighter future.
Since 2010, Happy House children’s home in Watamu, Kenya has been more than just a home – it’s a family you can be part of. Here, children grow up surrounded by love, laughter and the support they need to become confident, happy members of society.
Registered in the Republic of Kenya with the Ministry of Gender, Children & Social Development as a Charitable Children’s Institution . CS No. 000573
children currently live at Happy House children’s home, where love, laughter and care fill every day.
children are part of the Happy House family – once a Happy House kid, always a Happy House kid.
children attend our school, gaining quality education to achieve their full potential.
Sue Hayward fulfilled her dream in 2010 by opening the Happy House Children’s Home in Watamu, Kenya. Alongside her husband Dave, she sold their hotel in Blackpool to create a safe and loving family home for vulnerable children. The couple soon became affectionately known as Mama Sue and Papa Dave.
After Sue’s death in 2021, the Happy House continues her legacy of love, growing stronger each year. Today, it is supported by a dedicated group of trustees, Papa Dave and our wonderful long-term Kenyan staff. Every child is valued, nurtured, and given the education and opportunities they need to reach their full potential.
To provide quality accommodation and foster conditions that holistically support the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of each child in our care, ensuring quality education and preparing them for independent living, employment, and adulthood.
To provide a safe and nurturing environment for children aged 0–6 years at the time of admission, who have been orphaned or abandoned, enabling them to live happily and grow into healthy, fulfilled adults.
We believe in respect, compassion, opportunity, and integrity, striving to nurture every child with love and respect, while fostering resilience, sustainability, and a sense of belonging to build brighter futures.
Our blog offers a glimpse into life at Happy House, sharing stories of achievements, celebrations, and everyday joy. From creative projects to school successes, each post reflects the journeys of our children. Explore how your support transforms lives and join us in celebrating both big and small milestones that make Happy House so special.
When you sponsor a child at Happy House, you become part of our extended family, helping our children grow in a safe, loving environment where they can reach for their dreams.
For as little as the cost of a weekly coffee, your support provides essentials like education, healthcare, and daily care. Sponsorship ensures each child has the foundation to thrive.
Our dedicated kindergarten and primary school provide quality education to more than 300 children.
Affordable fees from local families help keep the school running while giving children the skills to become future leaders.
Moments in Time
Mar 9
Hussein working in the chapattis this weekend #Kenya #Watamu #happyhouse ...
Mar 8
Thomas showing you’re never too old to enjoy the swings
#watamu #childhoodmemories #Kenya #happyHouse
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Mar 8
Sabrina and James brought us some joy in the form of the Macarena! What a surprise for kids club. Thank you to our volunteers for bringing a smile to everyone’s face #Watamu #Kenya #volunteering #HappyHouse ...
Mar 6
Diana has just finished high school and is already giving back to the Happy House family. 📚
As our new Reading Coordinator, she has been running STAR reading assessments, helping children find books on the myON platform, and sitting with younger children to read aloud and build confidence.
Reading opens the door to opportunity, imagination and learning and Diana is helping us create a true love of reading at Happy House.
We’re so proud of her as she begins her journey into the world of work.
#ChildrenOfWatamu #HappyHouseWatamu #LoveOfReading #EducationMatters
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Mar 4
Samia cooking beans for lunch in a HUGE pot! A big pot of beans is needed to feed all 55 children.
#Kenya #Watamu #Malindi #happyHouse
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Mar 4
Diana teaching volunteer James how to make bread for 55 mouths #Watamu #Kenya #Malindi ...
Mar 1
How happy we are to receive volunteers from across the globe. Welcome to Sabrina and James #HappyHouse #Kenya #Watamu ...
Mar 1
Chef Brian in the building! 🫓🔥
If you can smell this through the screen… you know it’s about to be a good day 😄 CHAPATTI DAY
#Kenya #Watamu #Malindi #childrenofwatamu #happyhouse
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Feb 28
What makes you happy?
#happiness #smiles #HappyHouse #Watamu #Kenya
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Feb 27
When we have visitors, our children tell the story of the happy house. It’s so powerful the story has been created by them in their own words. #watamu #Kenya ...
Want to make a difference or learn more about our mission? Join our community and stay updated on the latest news, events, and stories from Happy House.
Your support can change lives and help create a better future for children in need.
Whether you’re interested in volunteering, sponsoring a child, or simply staying informed, we’d love to connect with you!