Christina's Story

Christine’s mother died when she was two years old. She lived with her grandmother who could not care for her properly. Her grandmother would go out to look for work and when she found a temporary job for the day they would have food to eat. When there was no work they would not have food. Christine left her grandmother’s home so she wouldn’t be a burden to her grandmother at the age of ten. Christine worked as a nanny and housekeeper, however, she was treated badly and the families refused to pay Christine for her work. While employed by a third family, Christine came to know about Kids Alive International. At that time there was only a boys’ home and temporary housing was set up for girls until the girls’ home could be built. At eleven years old, Christine came into the care of Kids Alive. Christine says, “If not for Kids Alive, I would not have the parental love I have now. I am receiving education, medical care, and help in growing spiritually because of the morning and evening devotions. It’s helped me to know that I have a purpose and a reason.” Christine is 19 years old and her goal is to be a nurse.

If Christine had not been rescued by Kids Alive International she would probably be married with several children. It is not uncommon for young girls to be married at the age of 10 or 12, usually to older men who could provide a dowry to their parents.