Imagine spending the night in a phone booth. It is stuffy and cold. You are hungry, you have not eaten much today. The world outside is cold and threatening. You could be attack at any moment and you know that there is no one to defend you. The only people you can count on are your friends from the street, not much older than you. So you are always ready to fight. Pretending to be strong, you are actually trembling with fear.
This scenario is unfortunately a daily reality for children living on the streets of Kabwe, who are frequently targets of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. The absence of a secure home environment leaves them vulnerable to violence, both from peers and adults. Establishing shelters that provide not only a safe place to sleep but also access to food, clean water, and basic healthcare is crucial. Therefore, we are creating a space where children in need can find a safe and tranquil harbor. A place where kids can be kids again, where adults act in a non-judgmental and supportive manner, but at the same time, teach the principles of social coexistence based on respect and trust. Our experience so far has shown that a preventive system of upbringing, the constant presence of caregivers and volunteers and a well-thought-out daily schedule in which children have time for study, work and sports, make it possible to successfully restore their sense of security, dignity and belonging.
