Rebuilding the lives of street children in Uganda

This past Saturday Britt Lake, the Direct of Programs at GlobalGiving and I had the pleasure of visiting Retrak in Kampala. Retrak is nestled in town, but even with all the hustle and bustle of city happenings Retrak's center provides a peaceful escape for street youth in the area. 

Britt and I met most of the staff who kindly spent part of their Saturday with us talking about the programs they offer. Right away we were blown away by the passion and empathy the staff brought to the conversation. Retrak's programs are abundant. They have an outreach program which uses soccer to introduce Retrak to the youth. Retrak also works to ease hunger, homelessness and internal issues by providing three meals a day and services such as counseling, basic skills training and foster care, as well as family reunification. 

The staff builds trust, and it is clear there is mutual repect between staff and the youth. Barry, who works with the youth as they prepare to go back home spoke about the importance of building trust. Once a positive connection is made the youth open up and begin to share their story. As Barry eloquentely put it, "They tell you what they keep secret in their heart."

Retrak is working to expand their program. Churchill, the Director has big plans and continues to see the immediate need for continuation of programs, as well as the need for expansion. Retrak is soon opening a new transit center. Churchill and his staff have big plans for 2013, stay tuned to hear more about their amazing work!