In the bustling city of Dhaka, a 12-year-old boy named Jibon found himself wandering the Railway Station, searching tirelessly for his parents. Despite his young age, he had already endured the heartache of running away from home multiple times, driven by a struggle with mental instability. Jibon’s journey that day was a reflection of his longing for love and belonging.
It was during one of these uncertain moments that the compassionate social mobilizers of the APON Foundation discovered him. Their dedicated team, committed to uplifting the lives of vulnerable children, spotted Jibon walking aimlessly, his small frame filled with hope yet burdened by despair. Recognizing the signs of distress, they gently approached him, offering reassurance and kindness.
Jibon was welcomed into the APON Foundation‘s shelter, part of their “Transitional Shelter for Street Children” project, generously supported by ”Muslim Charity”, UK. This initiative aims to rescue children like Jibon from precarious situations and provide them with a safe haven. The APON Foundation, a government-approved non-profit organization, has dedicated itself to improving the lives of economically and socially deprived individuals, nurturing a vision of an egalitarian society where every child can access basic education, healthcare, and opportunities for empowerment.
As the team contacted Jibon’s father, a sense of relief washed over the child. Soon, his uncle arrived to take him home, a journey made possible by the compassionate efforts of the APON Foundation. Here, Jibon was not just rescued; he was given a chance to heal and reconnect with his family.
Since its inception in January 2017, the APON Foundation has operated the “Thikana Shelter,” a sanctuary for street-connected children in Dhaka. The project’s mission is to liberate destitute street children from their harsh realities and reintegrate them into safe and nurturing environments. Through persistent efforts, the foundation has successfully rescued 1,369 children, including 1,247 boys and 122 girls, reuniting 803 with their families and referring 121 to permanent residential shelters by June 2024.
The foundation’s rescue team is relentless in their mission, visiting vulnerable areas like Sadarghat Launch Terminal, Kamalapur, Airport, and Tongi Railway Station. They work closely with local authorities to ensure the safety of the children. Each rescue begins with a connection to the local Thana, documenting the child’s story through a general diary entry. Once a child is brought to the shelter, they are welcomed with open arms—given new clothes, a chance to freshen up, and most importantly, the emotional support they desperately need.
Counseling sessions conducted by expert officials allow the team to gather vital information about each child’s family, working tirelessly toward reunification. With every rescued child, the APON Foundation aims not just to offer shelter, but to secure a brighter future filled with hope, love, and opportunities.
In Jibon’s case, his story became a testament to the transformative power of compassion and community support. His journey from the streets to the warmth of a family home illustrates the profound impact that organizations like the APON Foundation have in building a better future for children in need. Through their unwavering dedication, they continue to strive for a vision where every child can live free from fear and want—a vision of a “Street Children Free Bangladesh.”
As the sun set over Dhaka, the light of hope shone brightly for Jibon and countless others like him, reminding us all of the potential for change that lies within each act of kindness.