12-year-old Gabriela lives in Moldova. A country where poverty seems to be the final word. The hopelessness of life is often pushed aside by alcohol. This also applies to Gabriela’s parents. When he was born, he immediately needed treatment because his mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy.
This teenager’s life takes place in a poor house, where the plastic on the windows must withstand different weather conditions. Gabriela begins her story with some hesitation: ‘I am the oldest of three children who still live at home. The other three people live with grandma, because mom and dad can’t look after all of us well.’
At school
The quiet and simple girl did go to school, but that was all. ‘The teacher thought I couldn’t study well, so he didn’t care much about me. Homework is very easy. I often get coloring pages to color afterwards, but I don’t learn anything from them. I often look out and dream of new clothes and long hair with ribbons.’
Long winter
During the long winter months, Gabriela and her brothers were regularly sent out into the street to look for wood and twigs with their father. In this way they hope to beat the worst of the cold at home. ‘I always thought it was really bad, because my sneakers were full of holes. My feet were wet and icy. And my clothes are too big, they don’t provide any warmth.’
Child care center
Three years ago a church was opened in the village. ‘The good teacher invited us to come to the daycare. At first I thought it was fun, but I soon felt that these people really wanted to take care of us.
They taught me to read, write and count. And I was given a warm hat and coat for the cold. People at church also often visit mom and dad. We received packages of food, clothing and wood for the stove. They asked mum and dad to come to church too and luckily they did.’
Recently, the family’s situation apparently got so bad that the other three children also had to be removed from the home. This can be prevented with maximum effort from daycare employees. The children performed better in school and Gabriela’s parents accepted the help they received.
For €20 per month you can eliminate loneliness and ensure…children receive hot meals and education every day.
Go tokomoverenhelp.nl/wintercampagneor transfer your donation toBY NL42 WEDNESDAY 0161004555
[embedded content]
Partner Content
Come and Help