When his father struggled to care for Manuel* and his two brothers, the government sent them to an institution. After being there for over a year, Lumos and partner organisation Club Michin were able to support his father and bring Manuel and his siblings home.
They’ve been happy at home, living with their father and grandmother. Through Lumos, Manuel’s dad was able to get a job and the family were supported by a psychologist and social worker to overcome the trauma of living in an institution and adjust to life at home.
When the coronavirus pandemic struck, Manuel’s father lost his job. With no money for food and no way to speak to the social workers supporting Manuel and his siblings to stay at home, they risked being sent back to the institution. Manuel didn’t want to go back.
Luckily, we were able to step in and support the family. We helped to provide emergency food packages and financial support for other essential items, and a telephone so the children can continue to speak to their social worker. We’re also providing ongoing psychosocial support to help them deal with the anxiety caused by the global pandemic.
“If we hadn’t had the support of Lumos, we would certainly have struggled. Other families also need that support, or else they will have to live on the streets,” Manuel explains. His family want to thank our supporters, who have made this possible.
*Name changed to protect privacy
© Lumos / Irene Littfack
