The Garbage Dump is Their Home
Thousands of orphaned, abandoned, and abused children live on
the streets of Luanda, Angola – many in the district of Lixeira, which literally means “garbage dump.” Despite having names like Paulo, Dulce, and Esperança, there is nothing sweet or hopeful about their existence. Surrounded by refuse, dust, and the harsh realities of having to search for food while fending off gangs, traffickers and violence, it’s nearly impossible to escape despair. That’s why, since the early 1990s, Salesian missionaries serving in Luanda have paid particular attention to homeless youth. Each evening in Lixeira, with help from a nurse and educator, they conduct direct outreach: offering food, medical attention, and other individualized support. Those who are willing can enter a Salesian-run shelter and participate in school – an outcome that is particularly close to our missionaries’ hearts. With 45 percent of Angola’s population under the age of 15, 24 Winter/Spring 2021
