Oreste and Welcome

Oreste and Welcome were abandoned by their stepmother after the death of their father. Oreste said, “It was very hard for us, we didn’t have anybody to help us; we were not old enough to rely on ourselves. We had lost hope because we had no source of income and no way to survive. Early in the morning we used to push bicycles that carried goods to get money to buy food. This opportunity was not there every day and we could spend some days without eating.”

Community leaders brought the boys’ situation to our attention when they were 14 and 15 years old. We were able to give them the support to stay together as a family. Oreste said, “Many things have changed in our life. We have been sent to school, we come to the office to seek assistance whenever there is a need because Hope and Homes for Children has become a family for us.

“We no longer worry about food, school fees and school materials. Last time we received equipment including mattresses, bed sheets and blankets. Can you imagine what a surprise it is to get such gifts from someone? Hope and Homes for Children cares about us indeed. In May, they also bought us a bicycle; I can’t really forget this day. This bicycle is used as a taxi during the holidays. I earn enough money to buy food and we are able to eat what we want. I have already bought two pairs of trousers: one for my brother and another one for me. I have started saving money and the days to come will be brighter, thanks to Hope and Homes for Children’s assistance and guidance.”

In a recent report our social worker commented “If things continue this way, we hope that this family will become self-reliant after a short period of time because these children are courageous and full of hope and we are proud of their achievements.”

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