July 2005

Currently there are 18 foster children from our program that are neglected and are in dire need of funding, not only for education but for their living as well. They live in villages in the mountains and go to school in Wates (near Yogyakarta, Java). They are taken in by the school, and they reside in the school building, sometimes sleeping on the desks. The girls sleep in the library, and the boys sleep in the student body room. Their condition is truly heart-wrenching.
We visited the children last February. The teachers, principle and volunteers donate rice for the children's daily food. The principle goes to the extent of vending fried rice on the local streets every night to supplement the funds needed for the children's food.
The children have been living in school for almost one year, going home to their villages on weekends. The funds needed for each child for schooling (tuition) and food is about Rp.220,000 ($25) each month.
Donations would be gladly accepted in any amount because this is a special project that differs from our previous child sponsorship program. Whatever amount we receive will be allocated to the children immediately. This current program is a one-time only donation, unlike the annual program we had before. Should anyone choose to donate periodically, we would also gladly accept it.

Here are photographs taken during our recent trip to Wates, Kulon Progo.

click pictures for larger view

Shown in these photographs is the girls' living quarters. 12 girls sleep in this small, cramped space. They sleep behind the book shelves and cabinets, covered by a sheet that serves as a drape to hide it from government inspections.

Thank you for the contribution. As of today (January 19, 2006), we have received $1,940 donation, that would cover the beginning of semester's expense, such as: food and tuition for 2 months, exams fee, stationary, books, school uniforms, shoes, socks, soap, shampoo, toothbrush, towel and carpets for the boys to sleep on. The total expense for a whole academic year is $5,500.

We accept donation via paypal and credit card.

Or send a check to:
Sheila Djiwatampu
246 15th St. #5
Brooklyn, NY 11215

If you have any questions please contact us at : info@bemal.org