Former Dump Children Enjoy a Day at the Beach

Laughter, sunshine, and unforgettable memories filled the air as Back to Life Association (BLA) organized a joyful day at the beach for children whose lives have been transformed through love and support. For many of them, it was a chance to experience a different side of life.

 

Photo. Children happily swing, creating memories to cherish forever. 

 

Many of these children once lived on a garbage dump, where survival meant searching for charcoal among piles of waste and growing up without access to clean water. Today, they spent the day playing, laughing, sharing meals, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

 

The outing was made possible thanks to missionaries who had spent six months serving in Burundi and chose to say goodbye to the children through a special day of relaxation and fellowship.

Sylva and one of the missionaries watch as kids swim

 

"We have brought these kids here to relax," Sylva, presiden of BLA  said, expressing gratitude to the missionaries and everyone who helped make the event possible.

 

He recalled the difficult conditions many of the children had once endured. "These kids once washed themselves in mud and in water clogged in canvases, due to their lives not allowing them to get clean water. Throughout the day, the children shared meals together, each with their own plate, drinks, and fruits. It is a reminder that they live like other kids, and thanks to God, their future is bright," he said. "With BLA, it is good." 

 

The children themselves could not hide their excitement.

"We are very joyful, thanks to our sponsors who prepared this event for us. I am cheerful," said one of the children, smiling after a day of fun and laughter.

 

Among those enjoying the day was Jean De Dieu, whose life has changed dramatically through the support he received.

 

Olivier swims in the pool

 

" I am well, thanks to our supporters," he shared.

He explained that life at home had become increasingly difficult, forcing his family to search for charcoal among the garbage to survive.

"The situation worsened at home, and we went to search for coal among the garbage," he said.

Reflecting on the transformation in his life, Jean De Dieu added, "Our thoughts were ugly, but God has chosen me, seating me with the powerful."

 

Today, Back to Life provides permanent support to 123 children. They are fed 3 times a day and sent to school, moreover, all their basic needs are covered including accommodation, healthcare and clothing. Apart from that,  another 400 children who still live on the dump are fed  every weekend. Back to Life continues to hope and pray for more supporters who will help rescue these children and give them the opportunity for a better future.

 

The children enjoyed a festive meal, each with a plate of meat, fries, salad, and a soda.

 

As Scripture reminds us:

"He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; He seats them with princes, with the princes of His people." — Psalm 113:7-8

For these children, the beach was a reminder that their story is changing

 

Watch the video  

https://youtu.be/Wal2BnwYld8?si=04Mz0ycez4qHCegy

Thanks to Our Sponsors

We would like to thank all our sponsors who made this event possible. Thanks to their support, we were able to provide a memorable day for the children and the community.