By Cindy Fogleman | ICF Executive Director (Volunteer)
What would we do without you! You inspire us. And you are the fuel to power our projects for Iraqi orphans, street kids, and children displaced by violence. But, progress is not always a straight line. Read on and you will see what we mean as the stories of Sara* and Rana* end very differently.
Eight-year old Sara's* father was killed fighting ISIS. She, her mother, and teenage brother were left in extreme poverty. Her brother was unemployed, and Sara and her mother worked on the street collecting cans from the trash. Sara was even arrested by the juvenile police for begging, but released after her mother pledged not to let her beg again. She suffered from skin disease, toothaches, and malnutrition. But then Sara's story takes an amazing turn! She discovered the magic of the Hope Bus where she got tutoring and nutritious meals. With medical care, she was restored to health. The Baghdad Street Lawyers got the legal documents she needed and this fall she went back to school. The team also helped the mother and brother get new jobs, allowing them to rent a small apartment. Sara and her family now enjoy a new, stable life, thanks in large measure to the generous support you provide.
Ten-year old Rana's* story ends differently, breaking our hearts. She, too, enjoyed tutoring and nutritious meals on the Hope Bus and attended as often as her mother would permit. But, despite the persistent intervention of a social worker, the mother often refused to let Rana go to the Hope Bus, forcing her instead to work on the street, begging and selling small items. In October, little Rana was hit by a car while working on the street and died before she reached a hospital. We grieve for what could have been and are only consoled that while she lived, the Hope Bus nurtured and loved this precious child.
So what will your donations do next? How many more children will experience the love and hope delivered by the Street Lawyers and staff who provide tutoring and social services? Truly, it is up to you! Ready to up your game as we close 2017? Please give, often and generously. We thank you for being a part of our team!
*Names and pictures are changed for privacy
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