Two places, one goal: a life of dignity for every child
Bishop Andrew Francis wanted to give the children more than food – a future: a roof over their heads, school and later vocational training. We continue on this path in Kasur and Sangla Hill.
Where hope has a name
Our work in Kasur began in 2017 with five children. After the bishop's sudden death, Anthony Javed carried on alone – alongside his law studies. When the coronavirus pandemic came, the need became great. Together with friends of the bishop in Germany we found a way, and the group soon grew to around 30 children.
First things first: daily bread
Most of the children have lost both parents. Together with the local mothers, who also take responsibility for the children without parents, we buy and distribute food and warm clothing.
School begins
The first lessons took place in improvised classrooms. Rooms, teachers, textbooks and exercise books are still lacking.
What Kasur needs
- Food for daily meals
- Clothing, especially for winter
- Rooms, teachers and school supplies
What Sangla Hill needs
- A new, suitable home for the children
- Food, clothing and schooling
- Protection and awareness for girls and young women
Hill of Hope
Sangla Hill lies in Nankana Sahib district in Punjab province, about 100 km from Lahore. The project is closely linked to Sajal Javed. She was appointed to support us by the Vicar General of the Diocese of Lahore, Fr Francis Gulzar, and is also treasurer on the Pakistani side.
Rights for girls and women
Christian girls and women are among the most disadvantaged groups in the slums. At Sajal Javed's suggestion we organised a seminar that teaches children and young people about their rights and helps protect them from exploitation.
What comes next
The children currently live in badly dilapidated buildings that will soon make way for a construction project. We are looking for a new home where lessons can also take place. Since 2023 Dominican fathers have been teaching the children regularly.
“Sexual abuse as the norm?”
An interview (in German) about the dangers children in Pakistan face – and why protection, school and a safe home matter so much.
We have a dream
A home of our own with a school for 150 orphans – so that no child has to go back to the brick kilns.