In late 2019, Sandra finally earned the trust of a large group of street children who agreed to join our program (about 19 kids). This was not an easy feat.
Sandra was able to bond with these children and got them into the program because of “W” – the leader of that large “street family” – who made the decision that they should take a risk and trust Sandra. He insisted that his younger biological brother and his other street brothers join the program. Sadly, being the oldest of the group, having just turned 13, Wilder felt he was too old for school and migrated to the coffee fields to work as an agricultural laborer. We threw a party for these children to welcome them, and the one sorrow I had that day was that “W” wasn’t there – he had already left for the coffee fields. He was an incredibly caring young man who did his best to protect the other children, so I was sad he never experienced the joy of childhood – even for that one day. (Here is a link to the video of the party – it will definitely put a smile on your face) https://youtu.be/C8Mw-Ft_vi8
But this year, at age 19, “W” decided he was tired of abusive bosses and low pay, and he returned to join our program! He is going to trade school – studying to be an electrician. Periodically the trade schools showcase the skills the students are learning, and these are very proud days for Sandra – the “mother” to all these kids. Although Sandra agrees “W” left a chance for a childhood behind to go to the coffee plantations, the difficult experience he had makes him value, all the more, this chance to learn a technical trade which will completely change his life! This photo was taken at his first trade school showcase, and it warms my heart so much to see him in the program!!! A child I thought we “lost” is back!
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