In response to a divine calling to rescue and aid in the healing of rape victims, Flora Mwikali founded New Scent Rescue Shelter on June 8, 2015. This significant day marked the beginning of a journey that saw eleven girls, seven of whom attended school for the first time, while the others had dropped out. By July 8th, all the girls were fully embraced into the shelter after it became apparent that despite efforts to engage some of their mothers, the girls were not being properly cared for and returned to the streets for abuse and self-sufficiency.

New Scent Shelter is dedicated to restoring dignity to former street girls who have endured unimaginable hardships. Many of these girls survived by engaging in transactional sex with men who offered them meager food in exchange. Some slept in sand heaps or trash bins, where they were exploited by men. Others faced abuse at home, particularly from family members, highlighting the pervasive issue of incest.

Today, New Scent Centre is a safe haven for forty-nine children, with all but two being girls. Eleven are orphaned, and five were born to mentally ill mothers, who are now unable to care for them. Despite limited resources, the Centre ensures that all girls receive education and their basic needs are met. These girls come from Matungulu and Kangundo sub-counties in Machakos County, Kenya, and are aged three to twenty years old.

The Centre’s recent expansion reflects God’s provision, providing a decent home for these girls. New Scent Centre’s impact extends beyond its walls, as it has successfully cleared Tala Market of street girls, with exceptions for those who have recently found themselves on the streets.

The New Scent Centre story is one of resilience, transformation, and hope. Through our efforts, we strive to break the cycle of abuse and provide these girls with the opportunity for a brighter future.