Second Chance at Happiness: Dawit Thrives After Life on the Streets

Dawit's story is a symphony of resilience played against the harsh realities of life on the streets. In May 2023, SOS Children's Villages in Ethiopia's outreach team encountered a then 14-year-old Dawit struggling near Torhayloch in Addis Ababa. The city's bustling streets offered little solace, and the dangers of street life loomed large without stable shelter or support. Luckily, Dawit was not engaged in substance abuse, which is not the reality of many children exposed to similar situations. His circumstances mirrored the challenges faced by many children in street situations (CISS) across Ethiopia. 

Dawit's journey began long before the streets of Addis Ababa. He initially lived in the southern part of Ethiopia, Wolaita Sodo, specifically in Belle Awasa, with his aunt. Driven by a yearning for a better life, Dawit, then a young teenager, left his family behind. His disappearance shattered the hearts of his loved ones, particularly his aunt, who described their desperation: "After he left, with heavy hearts, we turned to God in prayer, begging to watch over him wherever he may be." Lost and filled with dread, they endured months of uncertainty, not knowing if they would ever see Dawit again. 

SOS Children's Villages in Ethiopia's Reaching Out to Children in/of the Streets project became Dawit's lifeline. He was welcomed into a safe haven, a stark contrast to the uncertainty of his previous existence. Here, basic needs like nutritious meals, clean clothes, and a warm bed became a comforting reality. Informal education classes replaced the harsh lessons of the streets, sparking a thirst for knowledge in Dawit. Recreation activities replaced aimless wandering, fostering a sense of normalcy and joy. Life skills training, child-friendly awareness sessions and professional counseling services equipped him with the tools to build a brighter future, a future he could now envision.  

Dawit's journey didn't end at the shelter. Dedicated social workers embarked on the delicate task of reuniting him with his family in Wolaita, nearly 400kms outside the capital. The reunion, filled with tears of joy and a renewed sense of belonging, was just the beginning. SOS Children's Villages in Ethiopia understands that family stability is key to a child's long-term well-being. His family is now involved in breeding goats to improve their livelihoods, a venture supported by our family economic empowerment initiatives. This not only empowered Dawit's family but also instilled in him a sense of shared responsibility, motivating him to contribute. 

Dawit's transformation is nothing short of remarkable. Back in school, his thirst for knowledge blossomed. He's not just attending classes; he's excelling, consistently ranking among the top ten students out of the fifty students that are attending third grade in his school. His academic achievements are a testament to his dedication and the support he received. 

But Dawit's dreams extend beyond the classroom walls. He actively reintegrates into his community, helping with family chores and rekindling friendships. His ambition shines through as he aspires to start a part-time business to further support his family. This entrepreneurial spirit, nurtured by life skills training, is a powerful indicator of his self-reliance and determination.  

Dawit playing football with his friends from the community

Dawit's story is a beacon of hope, a testament to the transformative power of the Reaching Out to Children in/of the Streets project. With nearly 3,500 participants across three cities; Addis Ababa, Adama and Dire Dawa, in just two years, SOS Children's Villages in Ethiopia is making a significant difference. The project aims to reduce the number of children on the streets and help them transition back to their families and communities. 

To ensure sustained progress, we conduct regular follow-ups working hand-in-hand with local governments and community structures. This collaboration ensures that Dawit and others like him continue to receive support even after the project phases out. The local government, community-based organizations (CBOs), school communities, and the children's families are now equipped to sustain these initiatives. 

Dawit's journey is far from over. He, like countless others, has the chance to thrive thanks to the project's tireless efforts. We are committed to continuing this vital work and making a positive, lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable children like Dawit. SOS Children's Villages in Ethiopia is dedicated to creating a future where every child has the opportunity to flourish, no matter their circumstances. 

*To respect the child's privacy, their real name has not been used.