About Happy House, Our Story - Children of Watamu Kenya

The Inspiring Story of Happy House Children’s Home in Watamu, Kenya

Sue and Dave Hayward founded the UK-registered charity Children of Watamu in 2003 with one clear purpose: to support and sustain Happy House. After selling their hotel in Blackpool, they moved their lives to Kenya, and in 2010 the Happy House you see today opened its doors.

Our belief is simple. Every child deserves to feel safe, loved, and given the opportunity to thrive.

We receive no government funding and rely entirely on donations. 100% of all donations go directly to supporting the children. This is made possible by our UK / UAE based trustees, who volunteer their time to provide governance and oversight, ensuring the charity operates responsibly and transparently.

Day to day, the home is run by our dedicated Kenyan team, known as “Aunties” and “Uncles”, led by Director Rose and supported by Evans and Social Worker Elaina.

Watch the video or explore our story below to see how it all began.

Our Journey

The Story of Happy House

January 2000

Our Story Begins

In January 2000, Sue and her husband Dave visited a school in Watamu. Children sat on cold stone floors, counting with pebbles, while teachers struggled without basic supplies such as pencils, paper, or books.

“We couldn’t believe that this was the year 2000, and children here were being educated in these conditions,” Sue said.

Determined to help, Sue and Dave travelled 25 miles to the nearest town to buy exercise books, pencils, and other essentials. But even that was not enough. Back home, they began fundraising with a collection bottle on the bar of their hotel in Blackpool.

It was the start of something extraordinary.

July 2003

A Growing Vision

Sue often said, “If children can read, children can learn.” She believed education was the only true path out of poverty for many.

In July 2003, Sue established the UK charity Children of Watamu, appointing trustees and laying the foundation for future growth. By the end of that year, all 130 children had their own desk and chair, with additional space ready for new students.

As the number of children grew, new classrooms were built and existing ones were refurbished. Sue’s dream of a library also became a reality. Thanks to the support of many, it was filled with over 50,000 books, opening up opportunities for children to learn, explore, and thrive.

By December 2007, the school was flourishing, with 700 children in full-time education and a strong enough foundation to stand independently.

February 2010

A Home for Every Child

While the school flourished, Sue saw a greater need: to provide a family home for children who were orphaned, abandoned, abused, neglected, or affected by family tragedy and extreme poverty.

“Children deserve the basics. They need love, safety, and a place to belong. They need a Happy House,” Sue often said.

Determined to turn this dream into reality, Sue and Dave sold their hotel in Blackpool and moved their lives to Watamu. In February 2010, Happy House opened its doors, becoming a sanctuary for children in desperate need of care.

At Happy House, children found warm beds, regular meals, an education, and the love of a family. For many, it was the first time they had ever felt safe or been able to dream of a brighter future.

June 2021

Carrying Forward Mama Sue’s Legacy

In June 2021, the Happy House family faced a sudden and heartbreaking loss. Mama Sue, the beloved founder of the Children of Watamu charity and a devoted champion for children in need, died unexpectedly.

Sue was an exceptional woman, determined, driven, and unwavering in her belief that every child deserves the best. Her work transformed countless young lives, and her vision continues to inspire us every day.

Her legacy lives on in every corner of Happy House, in the laughter of children, the warmth of shared meals, and the opportunities created through education.

Together, we can ensure her legacy continues to grow and touch even more lives.

Sue Has Made a Difference, Can You?

Mama Sue’s vision continues to live on through Happy House, and you can be part of this ongoing story. Every act of kindness helps us provide love, care, and education to the children who call Happy House their family.

Here are some ways you can make a difference and be part of our family:

For just £25 a month, you can ensure that our family can continue to grow, providing a safe and loving home and an education. Click here to find out more.

Organise an event, take on a personal challenge, or simply share our story with friends and family. Visit our donation page to find out more.

Join us in Watamu and bring your skills, time, and love to the Happy House family. See our visit us page to find out more.

Your support ensures that our vision thrives, offering hope and opportunity to every child who walks through our doors.