Needs assessments assist in developing programs that are in line with people's needs and therefore increase the community's acceptance of the project as their own. This assessment is essentially qualitative and it is conducted in a participatory manner. The unit of analysis for the assessment is the community and the different socio-economic groups according to well-being, gender and vulnerability.

The community needs assessments are done by:

• Prioritizing the needs of different groups in the community including HIV/AIDS affected orphans, and other vulnerable children and sections of the community.
• Conducting an inventory of existing services by other organisations in an area to reduce duplication of activities in one area.