The mission of Family First is to equip vulnerable families to break the cycle of poverty and dependency.
Family First uses a holistic model of outreach and empowerment that equips both children and parents to step into an independent, bright future!
Our History
Family First was founded by Matthew and Kelly Erdman. In 2013, Matthew and Kelly, along with their daughters Camille and Tabitha, moved from Texas USA to Tanzania to serve as the on-site directors for a local orphanage. There, they gained a deep conviction that even the very best orphanage cannot be a substitute for a loving family. They realized that what is truly needed is support to keep vulnerable families together and resources to help them thrive. In 2019 the Erdmans relocated to Kampala, Uganda, and founded Family First to support children and families living in one of the most impoverished slums in Kampala. “If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?” James 2:16
Our Values
Our Programs
Parent Empowerment
Family First provides an intensive program that equips parents to reach a bright future through education, counseling, and business support.
Early Childhood Education
Family First offers an innovative outreach program bringing lifelong education directly to the most vulnerable children in our community.
Daycare
Family First offers an innovative outreach program bringing lifelong education directly to the most vulnerable children in our community.