By Alka Subramanian | Project Leader
You are making a difference! As a result of your generosity we are able to provide a safe and learning environment for orphans and vulnerable children from Matero – a community that is characterized with a high incidence of HIV, TB and malaria. Most residents in this community are poor and live on less than $2 per day – defined as extreme poverty by the UN.
Given below is a story of a typical child who has benefitted from regular participation in "Safe Park" activities and is on track to become a role model for younger children.
Peter is a 12-year old orphan who enrolled in our “Safe Park” program about two years back but started participating regularly 12 months back. He lives with his aunt and cousins in Matero. At the time of enrollment, Peter was quiet, withdrawn, did not smile, missed school regularly and had few friends. Over the last year or so, Peter’s personality has changed and he is a different boy in many ways. He now interacts well with his peers, attends school regularly, has several friends, and like most children his age loves playing soccer. Peter’s aunt is happy as he is doing well at school. She said that the “Safe Park” program has made a significant impact on Peter. Also, his aunt said that Peter is turning into a responsible young boy as he helps with chores at home. Peter participates in all “Safe Park” activities, expresses himself freely, and likes playing with the other children. In addition, he proudly shares his report card with the counsellors during educational activities. We are confident that he will be a wonderful role model/mentor for other kids as he gets older.
This program is making a positive impact on the children from the community of Matero. The children seem happy while playing and learning and better adjusted to home and school. Almost all children who participate regularly show a significant improvement in their overall health. And with better health they are able to attend school, learn and make their families and the community stronger.
More important, “Safe Park” activities are having a greater impact on children who have been traumatized and/or abused. In these cases, there has been a reduction in grief and trauma, and the child’s relationship with the family has been positively reinforced. In addition, the children develop a sense of belonging and hope for the future.
Your gift of fun and learning, continues to benefit more than 650 children from the community of Matero in Lusaka, Zambia. Thanks!
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