St. Christopher Children's Home
Basseterre's historic children's home, caring for St. Kitts' most vulnerable young people since 1950
Why Go
Not every meaningful stop in St. Kitts is a beach or a bar. On Cardin Avenue in Basseterre stands an institution born of a 1937 'Million Penny Scheme,' when Kittitians pooled pennies to build a safe house for children in need ΓÇö and it has been doing exactly that for over 75 years.
The Experience
St. Christopher Children's Home is a working residential care facility, home to up to 34 children and teenagers aged 4 to 19, many of whom are orphaned or have been removed from unsafe situations. It is not a visitor attraction and does not offer tours or drop-in visits ΓÇö the privacy and safety of the children come first. For travellers, the way to experience this place is through its story and by supporting its mission: the Home officially opened on 26 January 1950 with a matron, an assistant and four children, and today it runs on government support plus donations from businesses, service organizations and individuals. Visitors who want their trip to leave something positive behind in St. Kitts will find few better causes.
What to Try
Make a donation through the Home's official website or arrange a contribution of school supplies, clothing or non-perishables in advance through the administrator. Groups and returning visitors sometimes sponsor fundraising events or holiday drives ΓÇö always coordinated ahead of time through the Board or Home Manager, never in person unannounced.
Insider Tip
If you'd like to help, reach out before you travel via the Home's website or Facebook page rather than showing up at the door. Coordinated giving ΓÇö cash donations, wish-list items, or supporting one of their organized fundraisers ΓÇö does far more good than a casual visit, and it respects international child-protection best practice.
The Practical Stuff
Located on Cardin Avenue in central Basseterre, a short distance from the capital's waterfront, restaurants and Port Zante. Contact and donation details are on stchristopherchildrenshome.org and the Home's Facebook page. All support should be arranged through the Home Manager/Administrator or Board of Directors; unannounced visits are not accepted.
Pair It With
- El Fredos Restaurant and Bar Guide — After arranging your donation, have lunch at this beloved local Basseterre spot ΓÇö spending with homegrown businesses is another way your visit supports the community.
- Coffee SHOP Guide — A casual downtown stop to plan your giving over a coffee before contacting the Home's administrator.
- Carambola Beach Club Guide — Balance a meaningful morning in Basseterre with an afternoon at one of the island's signature beach restaurants.