May 2016
fromthestreets Growing up too fast
Growing up in today’s world can be tough for any child. They face a wealth of challenges and social pressures that didn’t exist 10 years ago. Mix this with a dysfunctional family life and a poverty-stricken household and the reality of day-today life can be cruel for many all over the world. India is a country facing huge challenges due to its fast development in recent decades. The money poured into these new economic advances doesn’t always reach poorer communities as they witness the demise of their state and public services. Millions of people live on less than a dollar a day, most of them in terrible living conditions. This puts enormous amounts of pressure on families, many of which fall apart under the stress. Outlets are found in alcoholism, among other things, which serves to exacerbate the issues.
Meet Amir Amir* was only 8 years old when his mother abandoned him. Taking his older brother, she eloped with their local pastor and left the young boy with his alcoholic father. When his father was unable to cope Amir was adopted into the care of his grandmother who died just two years later, leaving him alone again. ➤
Pavement Project
Pavement Project is a unique Bible-based counselling process that equips children-at-risk workers all over the world to raise children’s self-worth and restore a sense of hope for the future.