Don Bosco Makululu does not only rescue the children from the street, but also supports reintegration with their extended family once the boys are ready and express their willingness. Here is a story of one of them.
A week ago, two boys ran back to the streets, and after two days they returned briefly before running away again. This was a clear sign that if we did not act, they could return permanently, start sniffing glue, and face an uncertain future.
We had to act. One boy was taken to his aunt, and the next day we went to Lusaka with the other. Early the following morning, we set out to find his grandparents, who agreed to care for him. On the way, we had to ask for directions multiple times, as there are practically no roads for cars. After more than 4.5 hours of driving, we reached a place where fishermen live in grass houses nearly 400 km from Makululu. During the rainy season, water rises near their homes, but now they had to travel far to the river, where the water is low, dirty, and makes fishing more difficult.
Once we arrived, it took 2 more hours to find someone to take us and the boy to his grandparents. Crossing the river seemed simple, but in a small boat it took 7 hours to reach the grandparents’ home. I stayed in the car, as we were in a semi-deserted area and could not leave safely. Several drunk or drugged people approached, highlighting how substance use is often a way to cope with hunger and hardship.
We had no food or water the whole day, navigating an unfamiliar place with no chance to buy anything to drink. The locals survive on river water, as they have no other access. Still, we made it back to Lusaka at midnight. 😊
Some may say this effort is extreme, but it is absolutely worth it. At least one boy was rescued from the street, placed in a family, and able to continue or start a normal life. It is not only our duty — it is a privilege.
A whole day without food or water, but joyful knowing the boy found a good family and returned to school.
https://maps.google.com/?q=-15.584741,27.252043&entry=gps&g_st=aw
You can help us maintain an orphanage for boys.
