Joel’s Story

At just four months of age Joel was brought to one of our supported orphanages in Trinidad. Joel’s mother could not properly care for him and Joel arrived severely neglected. As infants, Joel and his siblings were often left alone and laid out to sleep on discarded newspapers. 

Now 10 years old, Joel’s prayers to God continually include, "Bless me.  Please keep me safe." Joel says that his new home is much safer than ‘outside’.

With only 11 children, Joel’s new orphanage is comparatively small — affording him the personal attention he dearly needs. Joel is even fortunate enough to be joined by his brother and sister at the home.

Sister Gail, the nun in charge of Joel described him as being very quiet and obedient. "It is difficult to get children who are quiet," said Sister Gail.  "Most of them are quite noisy. He [Joel] is very helpful, loving and nice."

In many cases, orphans who have endured so much neglect often become introverted and shy and trust no one. For an innocent child like Joel, it can sometimes take years of love and attention to wash away the severe pain of the past... love and attention that you can help provide.

Joel has lived most of his young life in one of our supported homes in Trinidad. After enduring severe neglect, he arrived at his new home at only four months of age.

Today, Joel, 10,  is still a generally shy boy but has opened up considerably. "He is helpful, loving and nice," commented Sister Gail, the nun in charge of Joel’s care. "A very quiet and obedient child," she said.

When asked why he liked his new home, Joel mentioned the food, the fact that he has a place to sleep and that everybody was like ‘family’ to him. "I have food, shelter and care," he described.

Other activities that Joel enjoys include playing sports like soccer and basketball and watching movies. "Madagascar II" is his favorite film.

Joel is a thankful boy, grateful for his home as well as Sister Gail. He often does favors for his friends within the home, like cleaning their rooms or the shared bathrooms. And for all that Sister Gail has done for him, "I say thank you", he said.

Because he wishes to share the same love that he has received, Joel wants to be a teacher when he grows up.  When asked about the people he deeply cares for, Joel simply replied, "Everybody."

Innocent children like Joel need the love and support of people like you to sustain their fragile lives. Please consider becoming a member of Food For The Poor's Child of the Month Club by reaching out to help a child in desperate need.

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