In the Ethiopian town of Gambela, amid dust and uncertain daily life, there is a place that shines with hope: the Saint Don Bosco Salesian Educational Centre. For more than 800 children from communities hit by extreme poverty or the refugee crisis, it is more than just a few buildings. It is a “gateway” to a life they had only been able to dream of until now.
One of the children who come here is little Terefe. A boy whose smile belies the hard fate life has dealt him.
A talent that runs into the wall of poverty
Terefe’s story resembles many others — and yet it is unique in its determination. After his father’s sudden death, the full burden of caring for the family fell on his mother’s shoulders. She works as a cook, but her modest pay has to feed four small children. In a hierarchy of priorities where survival comes first, school supplies and fees end up out of reach.
And yet, every morning Terefe gets up with enthusiasm. His teachers describe him as an exceptionally bright and disciplined student. He has a huge appetite for learning, but without help from outside there is a real risk that his path to education will end before it has properly begun.
Child Adoption in Ethiopia: concrete help for children in need
Together with the Salesians of Don Bosco in Gambela, we run a programme of regular support that helps specific children from the parish and its surroundings. This is not an anonymous donation into a large fund. It is targeted help for children like Terefe.
How can you help with your contribution of 25 euros a month?
– You make it possible for a child to attend and finish school: You cover the cost of school fees, supplies and the learning process.
– Gaining qualifications: In this region, education is the only real path to stable work and a better life.
– Change for a whole community: An educated person is an asset to the whole community and can later help their own family.
Become an adoptive parent
Becoming part of Terefe’s story is simple, but its impact is incalculable. Your regular support gives these children certainty in the very uncertain world in which they are growing up. Thanks to you they will not have to leave their school benches because of a lack of means. “Education gives people the strength to change their own lives and the world around them.” Join us.
Become an adoptive parent in the Child Adoption in Ethiopia programme and give children the most precious gift — a chance at a dignified future.
