We support vulnerable communities through relief aid, education opportunities and cultural preservation — empowering the less privileged for a brighter future.
First Candle Charity Outreach Ltd is a charitable organisation established in the Republic of Uganda with a commitment to serving vulnerable individuals and communities. Among its principal objectives is to mobilise and provide relief to orphans, destitute persons, and communities affected by disasters. We also mobilise bursaries, scholarships and other forms of educational support for orphans, youth, persons with disabilities, girls and adults — enabling them to access schools and learning centres where they can acquire knowledge and practical skills.
The establishment of the charity was inspired by the need to adopt new and more effective approaches to community service. We recognised the importance of reviewing priorities and developing better ways of delivering assistance to improve both the efficiency and effectiveness of our work. Our founders bring considerable experience in community service, including working with local authorities such as Kampala Capital City Authority and several other local organisations.
From the outset, our vision has been to establish an organisation that operates professionally and systematically while embracing universally recognised best practices — so that First Candle can not only serve communities effectively, but also positively influence the organisations and individuals with whom we work.
First Candle Charity Outreach Limited is a non-governmental organisation established in 2024 and registered under the provisions of the Non-Governmental Organisations Registration Act, Cap. 113. The organisation is authorised to operate throughout Uganda and is committed to improving the lives of vulnerable communities through sustainable humanitarian and community development programmes.
The charity operates through a strong governance, administrative and operational structure that enables it to effectively fulfil its mission — led at the highest level by the General Assembly, which provides overall strategic leadership, accountability and direction.
A thriving community where children, youth, women and underprivileged individuals enjoy good living in a clean environment.
To support vulnerable communities through relief aid, education opportunities and cultural preservation, empowering the less privileged for a brighter future.
First Candle operates through a well-defined governance and management structure that promotes accountability, transparency and effective programme implementation.
First Candle delivers its programmes through seven core service areas that strengthen partnerships, promote community participation and ensure sustainable development interventions.
Implement programme and project activities in conformity with Government policy framework.
Involve stakeholders in programme and project interventions to ensure effective collaboration and sustainable outcomes.
Provide the financial and human resources required for the successful implementation of donor-funded projects.
Provide Government, particularly KCCA, with the information required for effective supervision and monitoring.
Build the capacities of target groups to sustain programme and project interventions.
Mobilise communities to participate in planning, budgeting and decision-making, with emphasis on vulnerable populations.
Support the communities where the organisation operates, as part of its corporate social responsibility commitment.
A look at recent programme activity across our three flagship service areas — delivered directly to families and schools in vulnerable communities.
Food assistance to vulnerable families through well-coordinated community distribution programmes — including Ramadhan food support, staple food bales and household essentials delivered directly to families in need.
Providing sustainable access to clean and safe drinking water for vulnerable communities — from borehole drilling and construction through to fully functioning water points serving entire villages.
Supporting vulnerable children and young people with educational opportunities and learning resources — including donated books, learning materials and shared meals that keep children engaged in school life.