Because of You, Jorge Is Stepping Into Adulthood with Hope

In just a few days, Jorge (pseudonym used for safety) will turn 18 — an age that, for many, comes with celebration and possibility. But for a teen who once survived on the streets, uncertain of food, safety, or his own worth, adulthood once felt like a frightening threshold. What might have meant facing the world alone now stands as a doorway to purpose, preparation, and hope.

Before arriving at Juniper Tree Children’s Home, a Kids Alive Safe Haven in Peru, Jorge survived by asking for food and navigating the dangers of the streets alone. “I felt like my life had no value,” he remembers. His childhood had been shaped by instability and emotional wounds no teenager should have to carry.

Because of partners like you, Jorge’s story did not end there.

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A Safe Place to Heal

When he came to Juniper Tree five years ago, he found what every child deserves: safety, stability, and a team committed to walking with him toward healing. “I found exactly what I needed here — love, care, food, and education,” he says. “That made me feel happy and valued.”

Those early days were not easy. Like many youth who have endured neglect and trauma, Jorge wrestled with resentment and mistrust. “Before, I would get upset quickly and stop talking to the staff when they corrected me,” he shares. But a Kids Alive Safe Haven is designed for these moments — with psychologists, social workers, and house parents trained to understand trauma and patiently rebuild trust.

“My psychologist, Eulalia, was always there when I felt sad,” he says. “She reminded me she was by my side, and that made me feel happy.” Through counseling, gentle correction, prayer, and the consistent message of his Life Declaration Cards, Jorge learned to regulate his emotions and release the bitterness that once weighed him down. “I asked God to let me leave this home in peace, without resentment. That helped me change.”

As he began to feel safe emotionally, Jorge’s gifts and determination came alive.

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New Opportunities

He discovered he loved cooking and worked tirelessly to pursue vocational training. Since 2022, he has completed diplomas in pastry, bakery, buffet service, and cake decorating — plus a graphic design diploma and certificates in software, computing, and internet center management. His dedication and curiosity astonished everyone around him.

His confidence grew too. Staff saw his responsibility and slowly entrusted him to travel independently across Lima to classes and training programs — a major step toward adulthood. “That makes me feel proud,” he says.

Now, on the brink of turning 18, Jorge is preparing for his next chapter: finishing high school, studying gastronomy and computing, and building a future rooted in purpose and faith. “I met Christ here,” he shares simply. “Growing up at Kids Alive has been the greatest privilege and biggest blessing.”

And even as he steps forward, his heart remains tender toward others. “To love others… to walk alongside someone who is sad or alone — that’s the most beautiful thing,” he says. “It changes your life.”

Because of you, Jorge is not stepping into adulthood with fear — but with healing, resilience, and hope.

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Give now to help healing happen and hope grow!

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