Krisdelkis’s Story
After her mother’s tragic murder, Krisdelkis was brought to an all-girls orphanage supported by Food For The Poor in the Dominican Republic. The traumatized girl cried for days, not fully comprehending that her worst days were behind her. Krisdelkis was raised in a tumultuous environment where drug abuse was prevalent and she was severely neglected. Her disturbed mother never offered her the love and protection that every child deserves. Instead, she often left Krisdelkis to fend for herself on unforgiving city streets. There, the little girl encountered abuse, hunger and abandonment.
Often, children like Krisdelkis appear emotionally numb when they arrive at their new orphanages. “They [the orphans] have been exposed to so much,” said Sister Julia, the nun in charge of Krisdelkis’s care. “These girls have been really mistreated. They come with all that pain inside. Sometimes they don’t even [know how to] run when they first come here.” When describing the overall needs of an orphan like Krisdelkis, Sister Julia repeated Krisdelkis’ regular prayer: “Take care of me...take care of me.” “Safety is on their mind a lot,” Sister Julia told us. “They feel threatened. They realize that the only one who can take care of them is God.” Krisdelkis’ emotional and psychological wounds are slowly starting to heal through the loving care of her new home. “She feels better now and says that her mom is with God,” commented Sister Julia, the nun in charge of Krisdelkis’ care. “It’s pretty here,” Krisdelkis added. “They treat me well.” Even after suffering so much pain at an early age, Krisdelkis’ desires remain centered around her family and helping others. Even though her own mother severely neglected her, Krisdelkis continually asks God to watch over her mom. “Take care of her,” she prays. Krisdelkis wants to be a doctor when she grows up and has even become a leader within her new circle of friends at the orphanage. When asked about her friends, Krisdelkis proudly responded, “Maria...Kathy...Sarah...” Our supported orphanages provide children who have never known a healthy childhood with a new, active and healthy life. For Krisdelkis — a child who used to fend for herself on the streets — the day begins early as she takes a shower and cleans her room. She then enjoys breakfast before prayer service and school. With each passing day at her new home, the pain of Krisdelkis’ past is being replaced with the joys of her new life. It’s the little things, like recess for playtime or the celebration of her birthday, that mean the world to Krisdelkis — an innocent little girl who simply craves love and affection. Innocent children like Krisdelkis 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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