Felistus Mwikali Patrick – The Catholic University of Eastern Africa

Wilkins Ndege Muhingi – Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

Email: elizabethakoth26@gmail.com

Abstract: The reintegration of institutionalized children into family settings remains a critical challenge in contexts marked by socio-economic instability. This study examined the influence of family socio-economic factors on the reintegration of children institutionalized in Catholic Church-run institutions in Lang’ata and Kibra Sub-Counties, Nairobi City County, Kenya. Guided by Attachment Theory and Social Network Theory, the study adopted a convergent parallel design targeting 40 participants, including directors, counselors, social workers, and caregivers, selected through census sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires and interview guides, with quantitative data analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS version 26 and qualitative data analyzed thematically. Findings revealed that low income, financial instability, inadequate housing, and high debt significantly hinder reintegration, while job insecurity limits families’ ability to sustainably provide for children. Although education and healthcare were less consistently cited, they remain barriers for disadvantaged families. Stable employment emerged as the most critical enabler of reintegration. Key strategies identified include financial support, vocational training, and family counseling to strengthen resilience and stability. The study recommends enhancing employment opportunities, expanding socio-economic support systems, and designing tailored reintegration programs to improve outcomes for institutionalized children.