It was a cold winter day when the mobile team of the Day Care Center for Children in Street Situations saw ten-year-old E. K. for the first time.
The little boy was selling small items at the main square of Prishtina. Despite being aware of the dangers, he said he had to do it to take care of his family.
On that very day, he learned about the Day Care Center, and he has been happy to go there ever since.
While expressing his gratitude towards Terre des Hommes, he shared the things he enjoys about the center, which supports him in various forms. He also described to us his new routine.
“I wake up in the morning and come to the center. Here, I do my homework, even though I don’t go to school. I like coming here, doing math and reading, as well as playing with other children”, he says.
As E. K. spoke about his experiences, his eyes sparkled with excitement. The center had become his refuge, a place where he could fully express himself and explore his passions. The dedicated staff at the center nurtured his natural curiosity, encouraging him to engage in various activities that broadened his horizons and ignited his creativity.
Helping children in street situation constitutes a central part of Tdh-Kosovo’s efforts. Last year, 200 children benefited from services through its Day Care Center.
In addition to providing a safe space and educational support, this Center also offers various activities to enhance the children's well-being. They organize games, art and music classes, and even excursions to museums and cultural events.
The staff at the Center work hard to create a welcoming and supportive environment for the children. They strive to build trusting relationships with the children, so they feel comfortable sharing their stories and challenges. The staff also work with the families of the children to understand their circumstances and provide additional support when necessary.
The Day Care Center's efforts are part of a broader initiative to address the issue of children in street situations. The goal is to create a place where no child has to live on the streets or face the dangers and challenges that come with it.
Despite the challenges he had faced, E. K.'s joyful and happy nature had not waned. It served as a reminder of the resilience and strength that children like him possess, even in the face of adversity. Through the unwavering support of organizations like Terre des Hommes and the transformative power of the Day Care Center, E. K. and countless other children in similar situations find the opportunity to reclaim their childhoods and embrace a brighter future.
E. K.'s story stands as a testament to the vital role played by the Day Care Center and its dedicated staff in empowering vulnerable children, giving them the tools they need to overcome obstacles and thrive. As his laughter reverberates through the walls of the center, it serves as a poignant reminder that with love, support, and a nurturing environment, even the most resilient souls can rise above their circumstances and embrace the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.
