Makindu Children's Program was founded in 1998 by Winnie Baron, an American medical volunteer, and Dianah Nzomo, a Kenyan teacher. Together they developed a day resource center where orphaned and vulnerable children in the town of Makindu could receive a nutritous meal, basic medical care, emotional support, and access to primary and secondary education.

Today MCP is a 501(c)(3) overseen by an American Board, while the day-to-day management and operations of the children's center are overseen by a Kenyan board. This ensures that the program is administered efficiently and in a culturally appropriate manner.