In July, 20 parents/guardians of our boys attended our parents' meeting at the Shelter. The purpose of the meeting was to explain the work of the Shelter to the parents and to help prepare them for reunification.
Elphas, one of our social workers, shared about the importance of family, including parental affection, emotional security, and promoting a sense of belonging at home.
Mama George shared how she travelled two days to attend the meeting. "I can never forget you because of all you have done for my son," she said. "When I didn't know how to help him, Shelter was there to help."
Have a look at these photos--beautiful families that would still be separated without the work of the Shelter and the support of our generous donors!
A Life Changed: Joseph
Joseph's father died when he was young. His mother left him and his brother with his grandmother. His grandmother, who works in a quarry, did her best to take care of the boys.
One week in 2016, the grandmother struggled to sell the stone, and was unable to provide food for her grandsons. Nine-year-old Joseph thought it best to leave home and try to make it on his own. Joseph spent three years on the streets selling scrap metal and charcoal to survive. In March, he was rescued by Shelter social workers.
After two months of rehabilitation at the Shelter, and several visits with his grandmother, it was determined that she is now more stable, and able to care for the boy. The boy was reunited with his grandmother in July, and is now attending school! Last week, one of our social workers visited Joseph at school and was happy to hear that he is doing well, and catching up with his classmates.
If you'd like to help change the lives of more boys like Joseph, you can contribute to the work of the Shelter at www.shelteryetu.org/donate.
Did you know we have two greenhouses at Shelter? Our staff and boys plant many crops throughout the year, and everything we produce is completely organic and chemical-free. And our greenhouses go a long way in keeping 50 boys fed!
The spinach we planted in our greenhouse last month is now thriving, thanks to the watchful eye of Paul, one of our dedicated staff members.