ORPHAN CRISIS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA
Southeast Asia consists of eleven countries, covering 1,700,000 square miles. Known for beautiful cascading waterfalls, mountain ranges, and bustling cities, these countries are unique and diverse in landscape and culture. Despite its beauty, a dark world exists, especially for orphaned and vulnerable children. Research indicates that when children are left without adequate care, they are susceptible to trafficking, child labor, drug abuse, exploitation, malnutrition, poverty, disease, and more. When a responsible adult is not present to advocate for these children, they face discrimination in almost every aspect of their lives. Access to education can be complicated, causing illiteracy and limiting opportunities to find good work and the ability to break out from the cycle of poverty. Furthermore, lacking hygiene and medical supplies increases their risk of diseases and preventable illnesses. These countries are diverse in language and culture, but each has a unique approach to addressing the orphan crisis. Some countries have better infrastructure to care for these children through social services and a foster care-type system. In other countries, there are no services for these children. Often, they are placed under the care of an orphanage, or they continue fending for themselves on the streets. Orphanages are often under-resourced, and the programs they run are underdeveloped. However, they might be the last line of defense, offering shelter from this region’s harsh climates and conditions. These children rely on homes with resources and a high standard of care, like Project Justice Safehouse, to provide for their needs and protect them from the vulnerabilities they would otherwise face.
ABOUT PROJECT JUSTICE SAFEHOUSE
Project Justice Safehouse is home to 14 girls who were rescued from vulnerable situations. This children’s home focuses on holistic strategies in the fight against child exploitation as they work across the spheres of prevention, protection, justice, and restoration. Their mission is inspired by Isaiah 58. “Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.” This home makes it their mission to provide education for the girls, a safe place to live, access to medical care, and the opportunity to grow in their faith and provide for their basic needs.
Serving Orphans Worldwide travels to every orphanage we partner with to ensure needs are legitimate and 100% of funds distributed goes to the livelihood of the children.
PROMINENT ISSUES
POVERTY
More than half of the population lives below the poverty line. Many children are forced to go to work instead of school, furthering the cycle. Subsequently, children are left abandoned because parents are unable to care for them.
CHILD LABOR
It is estimated that 10% of children in Southeast Asia work. Many children work in bars and brothels and then eventually move on to prostitution.
DISEASE
Without proper medical care and treatment, Southeast Asia’s child mortality rate is the highest. Disease runs rampant due to a lack of vaccinations and healthcare for the people.
WE BELIEVE
HOME
Project Justice Safehouse is comprised of separate rooms that serve as dorms, a kitchen, and bathrooms. The program is staffed full-time, providing adequate supervision for all the children under their care. The property offers plenty of space for the children to roam and play.
HEALTH
Fresh and healthy meals are provided each day. Every meal consists of rice with a protein like chicken, fish, or pork and a variety of fruits and vegetables throughout the day. While healthcare is not free of cost and easily accessible in this part of Southeast Asia, funds are raised when a child is sick. The home ensures that the children are seen by a local clinic or hospital when needed and that any medication is taken as prescribed. If their symptoms are more serious, they are taken to the hospital.
FAITH
At Project Justice Safehouse, the children are taught the love of Jesus daily as they wholeheartedly believe that this is hope that the children can hold onto. Bible study and worship nights are held every Friday. They are encouraged to learn a new worship song every Saturday and attend the local church on Sundays.
EDUCATION
All school-age children attend public school. They are transported safely to school by the house parents. They love having the opportunity to learn. The home ensures that education remains a top priority, as they understand it is vital to their future success.