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After her father passed away from AIDs-related illness and her mother was diagnosed with HIV, life became very difficult for Sraboni. Read about how HOPE supported her.
[Pictured above: girls from one of HOPE's programmes]
Sraboni’s* father died of AIDs-related illness when she was a young child, and her mother was diagnosed with HIV in the same year.
Her mother eventually fell ill and became bedridden, leaving her unable to feed Sraboni or ensure that the little girl was going to school or getting medical help when she needed it. A case worker learned of the difficult circumstances Sraboni faced at home and she was admitted to HOPE’s Snehneer Residential Childcare Centre.
Sraboni was found to be malnourished and suffering from allergies, as well as pharyngitis in her throat. She started receiving treatment from Calcutta Medical College, including bi-monthly check-ups by a doctor who advised on an appropriate nutrition plan. Sraboni also received counselling to help her come to terms with the difficulties she had gone through.
At Snehneer, Sraboni began formal education, private tuition classes and extra-curricular activities. When she turned 14, she also undertook an advanced computer course and training in tailoring. She also participated in a number of voluntary programmes and additional courses.
Despite experiencing health problems, Sraboni sat for her exams and passed her Board Examination with 2nd Division Grade marks. She also passed the Higher Secondary Examinations with a 72% pass mark.
Support through child sponsorship helped to secure Sraboni’s education, health and nutrition needs, and opened up a range of opportunities for her. Now aged 21, Sraboni is looking to the future. She is in her final year of further education and currently receiving on-the-job training at a care home for the elderly.
*Name changed
Can you help change the life of a disadvantaged young person through sponsorship?
Find out more about HOPE’s child sponsorship programme.
