Give An Education To A Trash Picker's Child

As the 2025–2026 academic year came to a close, we celebrated many important milestones as children advanced to the next stage of their education — from Kindergarten to Primary School, from Primary to Middle School, from Middle School to High School, and from High School to University. Each graduation marked more than academic progress; it represented resilience, perseverance, and hope. For children growing up in vulnerable circumstances, every step forward is significant, and each transition is a powerful reminder of why sustained support matters.

This year, however, was also overshadowed by a heartbreaking loss. We said goodbye to Deden, one of our beloved students, whom we had supported since Kindergarten. Deden was a quiet, gentle, and sincere boy who never asked for much, never caused trouble, and always joined every activity with a warm smile and wholehearted dedication. He should have been preparing to enter his final year of vocational high school in mechanical engineering. But after being suspected of having blood cancer, delays in receiving the urgent medical care he needed worsened his condition, and we lost him far too soon. His passing has left a deep sadness in our community and has strengthened our conviction that caring for vulnerable children must go beyond education alone. Their health, wellbeing, and access to timely medical support are just as essential to their future.

During the school holidays, our university students once again demonstrated the strength of this community by organizing workshops for their younger siblings and fellow students. One workshop addressed bullying — an issue many of our middle and high school students face because of their family background and the social stigma attached to poverty. Through honest conversations and peer-led discussions, the university students created a safe space for younger students to reflect on respect, empathy, and the courage to stand up against bullying. These conversations are especially important for children who often carry not only economic hardship, but also the emotional burden of exclusion and discrimination.

The university students also led a career-preparation workshop for high school students, introducing practical skills such as writing a resume, preparing for job interviews, and building confidence for the world of work. These holiday activities reflected something deeply meaningful: the children who once received support are now beginning to support others in return. In doing so, they are not only sharing knowledge and encouragement, but also helping to build a culture of care, solidarity, and leadership within their own community. This is one of the most powerful outcomes of our work — seeing children grow into young adults who are ready not only to shape their own futures, but also to lift up those coming after them.

Thank you for the continue support in these hildren's journey