About

Falco’s Children Africa, Inc began with a dream to empower lives. In 2009, Jerry and Tammy Backus moved to Tanzania to establish their second Bible school. Jerry, a seasoned missionary who planted over 250 churches in Zimbabwe and witnessed more than 250,000 salvations between 1997 and 2004, saw his plans change when he encountered Tanzania’s overwhelming need to care for orphans.

Recognizing this incredible need, Jerry transitioned his focus to founding an orphanage, giving the Bible school he started to the church he originally partnered with. Inspired by faith and guided by compassion, Falco’s Children Africa, Inc was born. 

With a population of 67 million, children make up 55% of Tanzania’s population—a striking contrast to the United States, where children aged 0-17 represent just 17%. Poverty exacerbates this challenge, with 89% of Tanzanians living on less than $1.85 per day. These factors, combined with high rates of parental death and child abandonment, lead to an overwhelming number of orphans in the country. 

At Falco’s Children Africa, Inc, we are committed to providing for these vulnerable children, helping them find hope, safety, love, and opportunities. 

In 2010, Falco’s Children Home opened its doors in Arusha, quickly outgrowing its facilities. Jerry began searching for land to build a larger village where children could thrive. By 2012, 70 acres were dedicated to constructing Falco’s Children Village—a landmark project designed to create a lasting impact for generations. 

Today, the village houses:

• 9 Children’s Homes: Each 1,600-square-foot home provides a nurturing environment for children grouped by age. Dedicated house parents foster a loving, family atmosphere. 
• Safe Water: A well reaching 450 feet deep supplies clean drinking water, with a storage capacity of 95,000 liters. 
• A vision for sustainability, empowerment, and personal development for each child.

In the words of Simon B. Panga, Tanzania’s Social Welfare Officer in 2010, Falco’s Children Africa, Inc is “the best example of orphanages in Tanzania.” He noted, “They will be the first organization in the country to provide a complete education for all their children and making sure they have the necessary skills so they can take care of themselves when they are old enough to leave their care. They are one of the best founders and director of orphanages in the country. I highly recommend for your support in this valuable project for the children.”

Tragically, Tammy Backus passed away on October 14, 2018, after her fourth battle with cancer. Tired of treatment, she chose to spend her final days at home in Tanzania, where she was lovingly laid to rest near the children’s homes. Tammy’s memory continues to inspire the mission, and you can watch a touching tribute to her on our Home page.  

In 2020, Jerry married Valerie, a steadfast partner who continues to support the mission of Falco’s Children Africa, Inc. 

What began as a dream has grown into a community that currently cares for 128 children. Through Falco’s Children Village, these young lives are transformed with access to a nurturing home, education, and faith-centered guidance.

Falco’s Children’s Village is dedicated to raising orphaned children in a Christ-centered home, emphasizing sustainability, empowerment, and personal development.

Of the 67 million people in Tanzania, one million are orphans. Through Falco’s Children Village, these orphaned children will find safety, love, a sense of belonging, and a brighter future. They will have a wide variety of educational, vocational, and recreational experiences to help each grow individually and be ready for adulthood.