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What Are Some Tips for Visiting Orphanages?

Mother Teresa once said, “The hunger for love is much more difficult to remove than the hunger for bread.”   The world is filled with children who are not only looking forward to their next meal, but also for a home and a family to eat every meal with. According to UNICEF , there are 140 million orphans worldwide with at least one deceased parent, and 15.1 million of these children have lost both parents.  These numbers don’t take into account children who are in orphanages for other reasons. In fact, 4 out of 5 children residing in orphanages worldwide aren’t considered orphans at all.  Many still have living relatives. Kinship fostering and adoption are often encouraged in many countries. Not only is it a better option financially, but children also do much better when they are raised in a family setting rather than in an institution. UNICEF is working to reduce the number of orphans so that more children are raised in a family environment.  Even so, orphanages are spread far and wide, and there are many children waiting for a loving family and a forever home. If you are contemplating a visit to an orphanage, there are a few things to keep in mind.

• What Is an Orphanage?

An orphanage is a residential institution which exists to care for orphans and children who have been separated from their biological families.  This can occur when parents pass away, when children are removed from an abusive situation, or when substance abuse or mental illness causes the home to become unsafe and unstable for a child.  Occasionally, children come to orphanages when their parents relocate for work and are unable or unwilling to bring their children with them. A vast majority of children are housed in orphanages due to extreme poverty. 

• Where Are Orphanages?

While orphanages used to be prevalent in America, they have since been replaced by an improved foster care system, private adoption agencies, and in certain cases, group homes.  There are still many children in America who are waiting to be adopted, however, American orphanages are a thing of the past. Government-run orphanages have also been phased out in Canada, the United Kingdom, and EU member states.

The orphanages that do remain in Europe are mostly state-funded.  However, most other orphanages worldwide are privately funded and are not run by any state or local government.  Churches and charities often help to fund these homes for children, and others depend solely upon donations and upon fees paid by families hoping to adopt a child or children.

Internationally, orphanages are still very common.  The Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute estimates that approximately 18 million orphans worldwide are living in orphanages or on the streets.  However, not all of these children are currently available for adoption. Sometimes, children come to orphanages temporarily while their parents are attempting to overcome financial hardships or other areas of difficulty. 

Families adopting internationally from China, Ethiopia, Haiti, and Russia commonly adopt from orphanages located there.  There are approximately 700 orphanages in Mexico as well.  In many countries, such as Romania, the number of orphans is decreasing at a steady rate.  

• What Should I Keep in Mind During a Visit?

Some people visit and volunteer at orphanages on mission trips with their churches or other organizations.  Some people choose to visit an orphanage while they are on vacation in a foreign country. It can be tricky for volunteers and visitors.  Most visitors can’t speak the native language, don’t have formal training, and can’t stay for an extended period of time.  

It is best to avoid orphanage tours while on vacation.  Orphans and underprivileged children are not tourist attractions.  Giving money to begging children may seem like a kind gesture, but it can actually serve to lock children into a cycle of poverty.  

While many people believe that all visits to orphanages exploit the children and cause more harm than good, there are some instances when visits can be beneficial.  Visitors can be a blessing to some of the world’s most vulnerable children.  

When considering a visit, ask yourself why .  Do you plan to become a lifelong advocate for orphans?  If so, this can be rewarding to you and to the children in need.  If you are visiting just to see underprivileged children or gain a new experience, perhaps you should think twice about visiting.  While playing with kids for a few hours may be fun, it unfortunately won’t make a huge difference. Spending several hours a day with the same children for a few months or even years can make a bigger difference.  Devoting your time and resources as you are able over an extended period of time may be difficult, but it can be very helpful. Perhaps the question shouldn’t be CAN I visit an orphanage, but SHOULD I? Your intentions make all the difference.  

For some visitors and volunteers, a long term trip isn’t feasible.  That’s okay. If you are able to donate your time and talent in meeting the needs of a facility, that’s great!  If you have experience in the medical field, the construction industry, or in education or social work, your skills are needed.  If you can provide a commitment to helping over an extended period of time (even if it’s in multiple trips or through donations), that’s even better.  

Bring with you good intentions.  If you have donations of toys, food or water, clothing, or other useful items, by all means, feel free to bring them.  Volunteer your time to make a difference in the lives of the community. Remember that these kids are human beings. This is not a zoo, and they aren’t here for your social media photo ops. These children may see plenty of fancy white westerners who stop by to snap pics and show their friends, but when they leave, they often haven’t left anything for these children to benefit from–financially OR emotionally.  Don’t visit just to make yourself feel better or to knock an item off your bucket list. Go expecting to change lives for the better and expect to have your life altered as well. 

• How Do I Know If an Orphanage Is Reputable?

While many orphanages are legitimately run, it’s important to be aware that scams exist as well.  Some “orphanages” are only set up for a day or so, preying upon the emotions (and the finances) of foreigners.  There are also “orphanages” set up as a means to extort foreign visitors for school fees and other donations that do not go to the children at all.  Instead, these children are sent to work rather than school. Some orphanages sell and traffic children into the slave trade and the sex industry. According to travelscams.org , from 2005-2017 the number of orphanages in Cambodia alone had increased by as much as 75%, many of them renting children for as little as $25 per month in order to get donations from unsuspecting and good-hearted people.  The families are promised that the children will receive food and an education while in the orphanage, but the children are mainly used as props. Children in some orphanages are bought from their families at a low cost and are essentially sold for a profit to westerners who are willing to pay expensive adoption fees.  In many countries, orphanages are run as businesses which can make the owners considerably rich. However, keeping the conditions poor can result in more donations for the facility (which equals more profit for the owners). Voluntourism is a lucrative business that doesn’t help children, even when it is disguised as a charity. With so many scams like this in practice around the world, how can you be certain that the orphanage you are dealing with is reputable?  

The truth is, it can be difficult to tell the difference.  Research can be quite helpful. How long has this orphanage been in business?  Does it have positive reviews and feedback? Are there regulations? There should be!  Orphanages should not cater to the tourists; they should keep the best interests of the children first.  There should be policies in place to protect the children in their care. If an orphanage lets anyone in that can include those with less than desirable intentions as well.  Check with well-known organizations to find orphanages that are genuinely in need of assistance and not just used as a for-profit business. Before making a donation, you can ask for a break down of program fees and funding allocation.  

• How Can I Prepare Myself Mentally to Visit an Orphanage?

It is important to remember that standards of care, cleanliness, and financial means differ widely in still developing countries.  Many nations lack the resources to adequately fund the child welfare system. In some countries, the main focus is given more to surviving and less to thriving.  Unfortunately, some orphans may become subject to neglect and exploitation.

In more developed nations, more emphasis is placed upon securing a successful future for the children.  What you can expect to experience at an orphanage may vary widely based upon the country or area you choose to visit.

While the surroundings may be foreign to you, do your best to smile and show respect to those around you, to both the workers and the children.  Even if you are caught off guard by sights, smells, and conditions that you may not be used to, remember that this is their daily reality. Hold back your tears and your judgment.  These children need to know that they are loved and accepted, not pitied or looked down upon.

It is best not to visit an orphanage while visiting a country on vacation as a tourist.  Plan to make a trip specifically to visit an orphanage. What you experience on your visit may be outside of what feels normal for you personally.  Even in orphanages where the caretakers do their best to provide for the children in their care, the facilities may be small, understaffed, and underfunded.  You may meet children who are severely ill, malnourished, and starved for attention. If you have a compassionate heart, your first instinct may be to adopt them all.  Because this is not an option for most people, remember that while you can’t take every child home with you, you can show them love and kindness while you are there. Give them hugs, sing them songs, smile, and let them know that they matter and that they are important.  Even seemingly small gestures can make a big difference in the lives of children who are starving for love. While many children may rush to sit by your side, make a point to approach those who seem a bit wary. Speak softly and genuinely, letting them know that you aren’t threatening and reassuring them that they are important and special.  With this being said, remember that while you are going home to your comfortable style of living, these children are staying where they are. They need to build an attachment and bond with their permanent caregivers, and they don’t need to see you as their mom or dad if you aren’t actually adopting them. While it is natural to love every child you meet, make sure that they don’t see you as their primary giver of affection.  They may become devastated when you leave and struggle to connect with those who care for them on a daily basis. Don’t visit to fill a space in your own heart. Visit to make a positive difference in the lives of others.  

Having to leave after these children have made an impact on you can be quite difficult.  You may have an image of them emblazoned in your mind for the rest of your days.   

• Are There Barriers to Adopting from an Orphanage?

According to the Immigration and Nationality Act, the definition of the word orphan means a child who has lost both parents due to disappearance or death, abandonment or desertion, or has experienced separation or loss from the parents.  If the child in question does not meet these criteria, adopting him or her may become more difficult because of immigration laws.  It’s best to research the laws in your country (and in your state) and speak with an attorney or an adoption agency when deciding to adopt internationally.

• How Can I Help Children Living in Orphanages?

Donating to reputable organizations such as UNICEF or The Intrepid Foundation is one of the best ways to make a difference.  These organizations have extensive experience in dealing with specific situations and needs that arise in orphanages.  They are able to direct the money and the professional help where it is needed. Good intentions are backed by proven, positive change. 

While navigating the orphanage system can be tricky, with proper research and a genuine desire to make a lasting difference, it can be a rewarding experience that changes you and the world for the better.

Leslie Bolin  is a happily married mama of 3 amazing kids. She is also the birth mother to an adult son. She is just beginning the reunion process, which makes her nervous and excited at the same time. Leslie enjoys educating others about adoption and has done her fair share of outreach, writing, and public speaking on the subject. She has an Associate of Arts degree in Social Work and plans to continue her education. Leslie enjoys spending time with her family, finding peace in the beauty of nature, and laughing as much as possible. She believes that smiling is contagious and that music is good for the soul. She is a firm believer that even the most difficult moments can be turned into something beautiful when we use our stories to help others.

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Do Orphans Go To School? A Detailed Look At Orphan Education

The question of whether orphans attend school is an important one. Education provides critical opportunities for personal growth and development. Understanding how orphaned children access schooling sheds light on support systems available to this vulnerable population.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Yes, orphans do attend school in most countries, though they may face extra challenges in accessing education.

In this approximately 2000 word article, we will explore different aspects of orphan education in depth. We will look at school enrollment rates, challenges orphans face in accessing education, ways schools support orphaned students, impacts of education on orphans’ lives, and potential policy solutions to improve orphan education.

School Enrollment Rates for Orphans

Ensuring access to education for all children, including orphans, is a crucial goal for global development. However, the reality is that orphaned children often face significant barriers when it comes to enrolling in school.

Let’s take a closer look at the school enrollment rates for orphans and the challenges they encounter.

Global Enrollment Rates

According to UNICEF, there are approximately 153 million orphans worldwide. Unfortunately, many of these children do not have access to education. In fact, orphaned children are significantly less likely to attend school compared to their non-orphaned peers.

This discrepancy in enrollment rates is due to a variety of factors, including poverty , lack of support systems, and discrimination. Orphaned children often face financial barriers that prevent them from accessing education, such as the cost of school fees, uniforms, and supplies.

Additionally, the absence of parental support and guidance can make it challenging for orphans to navigate the education system and stay in school.

在 Instagram 查看这篇帖子 UNICEF Africa (@unicefafrica) 分享的帖子

Regional Differences in Access

The school enrollment rates for orphans vary significantly across different regions of the world. In some areas, such as Sub-Saharan Africa , the enrollment rates for orphans are particularly low.

On the other hand, there are regions where efforts have been made to improve access to education for orphans. For example, in countries like Rwanda and Malawi, organizations and government initiatives have successfully increased school enrollment rates for orphaned children through the provision of scholarships , mentorship programs, and community support.

Impact of Family Situation

The family situation of orphans can also have a significant impact on their access to education. Orphaned children who live with extended family members or guardians may have a higher likelihood of attending school compared to those living in institutional care.

This is because family-based care often provides a more stable and supportive environment for education.

However, even in family-based care, orphans may face challenges in accessing education. Financial constraints and limited resources can still pose barriers to enrollment and hinder their educational opportunities.

It is crucial to provide support and resources to both orphaned children and their caregivers to ensure that education remains a priority.

Efforts are being made by organizations and governments worldwide to improve the school enrollment rates for orphans. By addressing the financial, social, and educational barriers that orphans face, we can create a more inclusive and equitable education system for all children, regardless of their family situation.

Challenges Orphans Face in Accessing Education

Education is a fundamental right for every child, but unfortunately, orphans often face numerous challenges in accessing quality education. These challenges can stem from financial barriers, administrative obstacles, social stigma and discrimination, as well as health issues and trauma.

Financial Barriers

One of the major challenges orphans face in accessing education is the financial barrier. Many orphans come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, making it difficult for them to afford school fees, uniforms, textbooks, and other necessary supplies.

Without the necessary financial support, these children are often left without access to education.

Administrative Obstacles

In addition to financial barriers, orphans also face administrative obstacles when it comes to accessing education. They may lack the necessary documentation, such as birth certificates or proof of guardianship, which is required for school enrollment.

Additionally, bureaucratic processes and lack of coordination between orphanages and educational institutions can further hinder their access to education.

Social Stigma and Discrimination

Orphans often face social stigma and discrimination, which can have a significant impact on their education. They may be excluded or marginalized by their peers and teachers, leading to feelings of isolation and low self-esteem.

Additionally, societal stereotypes and misconceptions about orphans can create barriers to their educational opportunities.

Health Issues and Trauma

Orphans may also face health issues and trauma that affect their ability to access education. Many orphaned children have experienced the loss of their parents due to illness or other tragic circumstances, which can result in physical and emotional trauma.

These health issues and trauma can impede their learning and overall well-being.

It is important for governments, NGOs, and communities to recognize and address these challenges faced by orphans in accessing education. Efforts should be made to provide financial assistance, streamline administrative processes, promote inclusivity and awareness, and provide necessary support for the physical and emotional well-being of orphaned children.

By overcoming these challenges, we can ensure that every orphan receives the education they deserve.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by PGShiksha (@pgshiksha)

Support Systems to Help Orphans Succeed in School

Education is a fundamental right for every child, including orphans. However, orphans often face unique challenges that can hinder their access to education. Fortunately, there are several support systems in place to help orphans succeed in school and overcome these obstacles.

Government Programs

Many governments recognize the importance of education for orphans and have implemented programs to support their educational needs. These programs often provide financial assistance, scholarships, and educational resources to ensure that orphans have equal opportunities to learn and thrive in school.

Additionally, governments may collaborate with non-profit organizations and local communities to create safe and nurturing environments for orphaned children to learn and grow.

Non-Profit Initiatives

Non-profit organizations play a crucial role in supporting orphan education around the world. These initiatives focus on providing educational resources, scholarships, and mentorship programs to orphaned children.

Through these initiatives, orphans are given the opportunity to attend school, access quality education, and receive the necessary support to excel academically. Non-profit organizations also work closely with schools and communities to create inclusive and supportive environments for orphans, ensuring that their unique needs are met.

Foster and Adoptive Family Support

Foster and adoptive families play a significant role in the education of orphaned children. These families provide a stable and nurturing environment where orphans can thrive academically. They offer emotional support , help with homework , and advocate for the educational needs of the child.

Foster and adoptive families also work closely with schools and teachers to ensure that the child receives the necessary accommodations and support to succeed in their education.

It is important to recognize that the support systems mentioned above are not exhaustive, and there are many other initiatives and organizations dedicated to helping orphans succeed in school. By providing these support systems, we can ensure that orphans have the opportunity to receive a quality education and break the cycle of poverty.

Impacts of Education on Orphans’ Lives

Educational opportunities play a crucial role in the lives of orphans, providing them with a pathway to a brighter future. By receiving an education , orphans can develop essential skills, enhance their employment prospects, reduce the risk of exploitation, and improve their social integration and emotional well-being.

Literacy and Academic Skills

Access to education equips orphans with vital literacy and academic skills that are necessary for their personal and professional development. Learning to read, write, and solve mathematical problems empowers them to communicate effectively, make informed decisions, and participate actively in society.

By acquiring these foundational skills, orphans gain the confidence and knowledge needed to navigate the challenges they may face in life.

Improved Employment Prospects

An education opens up numerous employment opportunities for orphans, enabling them to break the cycle of poverty. With a solid educational foundation, they can pursue higher education or vocational training, acquiring specialized skills that increase their chances of securing stable and well-paying jobs.

Education provides orphans with the necessary tools to become self-reliant and contribute positively to their communities.

Reduced Risk of Exploitation

Education acts as a protective factor for orphans, reducing their vulnerability to exploitation and abuse. By attending school, they gain knowledge about their rights, develop critical thinking skills, and learn to identify and report instances of exploitation.

Education empowers orphans to make informed decisions, protect themselves from harmful situations, and advocate for their well-being, leading to a safer and more secure future.

Social Integration and Emotional Wellbeing

Education plays a vital role in the social integration and emotional well-being of orphans. Schools provide a supportive environment where they can interact with peers, develop friendships , and feel a sense of belonging.

Education also fosters emotional resilience , providing orphans with the necessary tools to cope with adversity and overcome challenges. By being part of a school community, orphans gain a support system that nurtures their overall development.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by UNICEF East Asia & Pacific (@unicef.eap)

Policy Solutions to Improve Orphan Education

When it comes to improving orphan education, implementing effective policies is crucial. By addressing key areas such as increased funding for school fees, support for guardians and foster families, and anti-discrimination policies and social support, governments and organizations can make a significant impact on the education of orphans .

Increased Funding for School Fees

One of the primary challenges faced by orphans in accessing education is the inability to afford school fees. Many orphans come from impoverished backgrounds, making it difficult for them to pay for tuition, textbooks , and other educational expenses.

To address this issue, governments and organizations can allocate more funding specifically for orphan education . This can include scholarships, grants, or subsidies to cover the cost of school fees. By providing financial support, more orphans can have the opportunity to attend school and receive a quality education.

Support for Guardians and Foster Families

Guardians and foster families play a crucial role in the lives of orphans, providing them with love, care, and stability. However, these caregivers often face challenges in meeting the educational needs of the children under their care.

To improve orphan education, it is essential to provide support to guardians and foster families. This can include training programs to enhance their parenting skills, access to educational resources, and financial assistance to ensure that the children receive the necessary educational support.

By empowering the caregivers, we can create a supportive environment that fosters the educational development of orphans.

Anti-Discrimination Policies and Social Support

Orphans may face discrimination and stigmatization in society, which can hinder their educational opportunities. To address this issue, it is essential to implement anti-discrimination policies that protect orphans from any form of prejudice or exclusion .

Additionally, providing social support networks for orphans can help them overcome the challenges they face. This can include mentorship programs, counseling services, and peer support groups. By creating an inclusive and supportive environment, we can ensure that orphans have equal access to education and are given the opportunity to thrive academically.

Education is a crucial means for orphaned children to build skills, employment prospects, and social connections. While many orphans do attend school around the world, they face steep barriers in accessing and excelling in education.

Improving policy and community support systems could help more orphaned youth access critical schooling opportunities. With nurturing educational environments, orphans can gain the tools to reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.

Maria Sanchez is the founder of the Save Our Schools March blog. As a former teacher and parent, she is passionate about equitable access to quality public education. Maria created the blog to build awareness around education issues and solutions after organizing a local march for public schools.

With a Master's in Education, Maria taught high school English before leaving her career to raise a family. As a parent, she became concerned about underfunded schools and over-testing. These experiences drove Maria to become an education advocate.

On the blog, Maria provides resources and policy insights from the dual perspective of an informed parent and former teacher. She aims to inspire others to join the movement for quality, equitable public education. Maria lives with her family in [city, state].

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Miracle Foundation - part of a global network of non-profit organizations leading the worldwide movement to end the need for orphanages by 2040.

Transform the lives of orphan children and change their story.

A family for every child in our lifetime

Children belong in families.

Every child has the right to a safe, stable, and permanent home. And yet millions of children remain in orphanages, are removed from their birth family, or are moved too often between foster homes. It’s time to change this. Here’s how we’re doing it.

Eliminating the Need for Orphanages Globally

Miracle Foundation is part of a movement to reunite orphaned children with their families. Collectively, with partners all over the world, we believe we can end the need for orphanages in our lifetime.

Ensuring Children Grow Up in a Safe, Stable Family

In the United States, Miracle Foundation is working tirelessly to help stabilize children in families within the foster system and also working to prevent at-risk children from ever entering the system in the first place.

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ELIMINATING THE NEED FOR ORPHANAGES

There are currently 5.4 million children living in orphanages worldwide.

80% of children in institutions have a family member they could live with if given support.

Here’s how we’re changing that.

Prevent Children From Entering the System

The orphan crisis will never end until we stop it at the source. This means: Identifying vulnerable families long before the idea of child placement is necessary. Here’s how we do it. Learn More

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It’s time to move from orphanages to families, and we have a proven field-tested method to make sure this is done safely. Help us bring them home. Learn More

THRIVE SCALE™ Measures Progress

Developed over the past two decades, this one-of-a-kind tool takes the guesswork out of caring for children, especially during the critical period after a child leaves an orphanage and returns to a family environment. 

ENSURING CHILDREN GROW UP IN A SAFE, STABLE HOME

391,000 children currently live in the US Foster Care System.

Children in foster care are moved an average of 7 times once they are removed from their family.

Stabilize Placements For Children Until They Have a Forever Home

In countries like the United States, where Foster Care is the institutional solution, we provide tools and access to resources that help stabilize children from moving from house to house. Our Local Work

We prevent children from entering the system whenever possible. Prevention is equally crucial in foster care, and separation should always be a last resort. Our work always strives to lift up families and keep them together. How we Work

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VISITING AN ORPHANAGE: A GUIDE TO MAKING YOUR VISIT MEANINGFUL AND RESPECTFUL – OUR WAY AT SHOMEA

Dr. Winnie ANOUMEDEM, ORL-CCF. Country Representative, SHOMEA Cameroon.

Dr. Brice VOFO, FICO, MBA. Co-Founder and Vice-President, SHOMEA .

Visiting an orphanage can be a deeply rewarding experience, offering a unique opportunity to positively impact the lives of children who have faced considerable challenges early in their lives. However, it’s crucial to approach such visits with sensitivity, respect, and a clear understanding of how to make your time there beneficial for both you and the children. In this blog, we’ll explore some key considerations and tips for visiting an orphanage as we do at SHOMEA.

Understanding the Purpose of Your Visit

Before planning your visit, it’s important to clarify your intentions. Are you looking to volunteer, donate, or simply spend time with the children? Understanding your purpose will help you plan your visit more effectively and ensure that your presence is beneficial to the orphanage.

Research and Choose the Right Orphanage

Not all orphanages have the same needs or are open to visitors. Research various orphanages, understanding their background, the age group of the children, and their specific needs. Contact the orphanage beforehand to understand their visiting policies and how you can best contribute.

Plan Your Visit

Coordinate with the orphanage and your team mates to choose a suitable date and time for your visit. Avoid periods when the children have educational or other important activities.

At SHOMEA, we organise visits around holidays and board member’s birthdays to share the joy with the children. A visit at Christmas may require a Christmas tree with gifts for the children, at birthdays, a birthday cake will be appropriate.

• What to Bring

If you plan to bring gifts or donations, discuss with the orphanage staff what is needed . It’s important to bring items that are useful and suitable for the children’s age and situation .

Most orphanages need food stuffs, toiletries, and clothes. Depending on the specific needs of the children, a medical doctor may be consulted to visit the children and offer them medications based on available pathologies. Children with specific needs like hearing, visual and physical disabilities may be assisted by offering them rehabilitation to increase their chances at education and career.

In this digital era, helping the children acquire tools to match the outside world can be vital; these could include desktops, laptops, computer science training, and coaching sessions.

During the Visit

• Interact with Respect and Sensitivity

When interacting with the children, remember that each child has a unique background. Approach them with kindness, respect, and a non-judgmental attitude. Engage in activities that are age-appropriate and enjoyable for them.

• Follow the Orphanage’s Rules

Respect the orphanage’s rules and guidelines. These are in place for the safety and well-being of the children.

• Cultural Sensitivity

Be mindful of cultural differences. What might be a normal gesture in your culture could be interpreted differently in another.

After the Visit

• Reflect on the Experience

Take time to reflect on your visit. Think about what you learned and how the experience impacted you.

• Stay Involved

If you felt a connection and want to help further, consider how you can continue to support the orphanage. This could be through regular donations, volunteering, or advocacy.

• Share Your Experience

Sharing your experience with others can raise awareness about the orphanage and the needs of the children there. However, be mindful of the privacy and dignity of the children when sharing details or photos.

Ethical Considerations

Remember that orphanage tourism, where visitors briefly stop by without meaningful interaction or contribution, can be harmful. Such visits can disrupt the children’s routine and create attachment issues. Always prioritize the children’s emotional well-being over the desire for a fulfilling personal experience.

Visiting an orphanage can be a life-changing experience, but it’s vital to approach it with the right mindset and preparation. By planning your visit carefully, respecting the children and staff, and considering how to make a lasting positive impact, you can ensure that your visit is beneficial and respectful. Remember, the ultimate goal is to support and uplift the children in a way that respects their dignity and contributes to their long-term well-being.

If you wish to join us during our visits at SHOMEA, feel free to contact us.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The lack of knowledge about the reality of life in an orphanage leads many well-meaning donors to continue to support them. The key to changing the way we care about children worldwide is knowing the truth about orphanages. Below you will find answers to the most common questions.

Orphanage Information

Are all orphanages bad.

This is a tricky question. All children need to be raised with a stable family and a community support system. An orphanage is an institution whose caregivers come and go on a rotating basis and who cannot give each child the individual attention that a parent can give. Even in the best orphanages children do not get the attention they need to develop mentally and emotionally. As a result, they often grow up into adults who never reach their potential. Sixty years of research show that all orphanages are not good long-term solutions for raising children.

How can you tell if an orphanage is bad?

Although orphanages are never good developmental places for children, it doesn’t mean they are all abusive, neglectful, or dangerous. However, many are just that. An orphanage should never be a business, but rather a temporary stop for children on the way to a loving family—either their own or an adoptive one. An organization operating in the best interests of the children will have a child protection policy in place, will be properly registered with the government, and will operate legally. Additionally, a legitimate organization that serves vulnerable children will never allow outside visitors like tourists or unskilled volunteers to spend time with the children because they know children deserve privacy and protection.

Is it true that most children in orphanages are not orphans?

Unfortunately, this is true. Years of research show that 80 to 90% of children in orphanages worldwide have at least one living parent.

What is the orphanage crisis?

The orphanage crisis refers to the escalating number of orphanages that are popping up all over the world at the same time that fewer and fewer children are being orphaned. We know a high percentage of these orphanages are foreign owned, often unregistered, and often illegal. For example, Uganda had 39 orphanages in 1999. Today, there are between 600-800 of them, about 30% are registered and we know most of them are foreign owned. The number of orphans, especially from AIDS, has steadily decreased during this same time. The truth is that orphanages are a profitable business and foreigners, however well-meaning, are driving this burgeoning industry.

What is the history of this crisis?

The cultural norm in most countries, even the poorest ones, is to rely on children’s extended family or their own communities to care for them outside of his or her immediate family. Often referred to as “kinship care,” this is when the larger community steps in to collectively care for an orphaned child, providing family-based care. However, the recent rise in extreme poverty, on-going conflicts, famine, disease, AIDS epidemic, natural disasters, and underdeveloped social welfare systems, combined with population growth, is creating a crisis where communities are overwhelmed with children, without the necessary resources to care for them.

During the past several decades, well-meaning people from western countries created orphanages in an attempt to help. However, the outpouring of support and resources from the West also gave many opportunistic actors ideas for business models that would allow them to prey on impoverished families, convincing them to give up their children so they could be used to solicit donations from well-meaning donors. The large increase in the number of orphanages is fueling a dependency within governments on institutional care rather than reform and development of social welfare systems—systems that would keep families together, reunite families, or provide alternative family-based care for those in need.

Why are there orphanages in developing parts of the world but not in the United States?

The United States and most other developed nations closed their orphanages and replaced them with foster care and other family-based care programs in the 60s and 70s. However, orphanages still exist around the world where there is persistent political and economic instability, severe poverty, violent conflict, epidemics, famine, and unexpected natural disasters.

How do children who are not orphans end up in orphanages?

Violent conflict, war, and natural disasters are often sudden ways that children get separated from their families. However, more often, children are separated from their families because of severe poverty and lack of access to adequate food, shelter and education. Very often, parents are told their child will be fed and educated at an orphanage, and often that is true. But an orphanage can never replace the love and care of a family.

Why would parents choose to give their children to an orphanage?

Parents rarely want to give up their child although it may often appear that way. Parents who raise children in severe poverty, or with a disability, struggle to provide them with basic needs. Thus they feel they have no choice but to send their children to orphanages that promise a better life. These parents often live in rural areas with little support and genuinely believe they are doing the right thing. However, it is often the institutions that seek out the parents and deceive them into giving up their children.

Is it true that many orphanages are opened as money making enterprises rather than to fill a need for children with no home?

Unfortunately, this is true. For example, Uganda has seen a rise in new orphanages in the last 19 years from a total of 36 in 1999, to more than 800 today. This year, the government named 500 orphanages that are not in compliance with recent legal requirements that include registration and minimum standards. They will be shut down. The vast majority of them  were started by people looking to dupe unsuspecting but well-meaning western donors and tourists. This business model uses impoverished and vulnerable children to tug at the heartstrings of westerners who are desperate to help by donating money and volunteering their time.

Is it true that many orphanages recruit children?

Yes, the unscrupulous orphanages often use “child finders” to fill the beds. They go to rural areas where poverty is severe and education is limited to recruit children by convincing parents they will give them the care and education they cannot. Parents often feel desperate. In most cases, these children will be bought or sold into situations that are far from what is promised. In the worst situations the children’s names are changed, death certificates are forged, and they are sold into slavery, and other forms of exploitation, never to see their parents again.

Should I volunteer in an orphanage?

The simple answer is no, but for several very important reasons. The most important reason is that children who live in orphanages have been separated from their families and are very vulnerable. All children need a consistent caregiver in their lives and orphanages are unable to provide that with constant staff turnover and shift changes and it only exacerbates the problem when volunteers come and go. It is harmful to the children’s development to have strangers coming in and out of their lives for short periods of time. Vulnerable children often struggle with attachment issues whether it is getting attached to people too quickly or not at all.

Orphanages that allow unskilled volunteers to come in for short periods of time to volunteer do not have the children’s best interest in mind. The best of orphanages do not allow unskilled and short-term volunteers because they understand the importance of privacy and stability for the children they serve. Additionally, by volunteering you are potentially taking away the employment of a local person and if you are paying to volunteer you are potentially funding an organization that is actually causing harm to children.

What is a “care leaver”?

Care leavers are children (usually age 18+) who have spent all or part of their lives in orphanages and other institutions and age out of the system. These young adults leave orphanages to fend for themselves even though they have never participated in or been part of a community.

Having no support and little understanding of how to function in the outside world, these young adults struggle to lead full and productive lives. Research has shown that children who live in orphanages until they are adults are 10 times more likely to end up in sex work, 40 times more likely to have criminal records and 500 times more likely to commit suicide.

About ChangingTheWayWeCare.org

Where does changing the way we care work.

Changing the Way We Care ℠ is a movement designed to promote family-based care. In October 2018, the team began working in three countries: Moldova, Kenya and Guatemala. In all three countries we see great opportunity to make real change. As funding becomes available, we will strategically expand our program to more countries where we have government and civil society support.

How do you monitor and evaluate your work?

We have clear goals for how many children we will return to family care, and we keep close measure on the results. It is also important for us to monitor how well the children are doing once they are home. To do this, we regularly visit the children to make sure they are safe and that they are getting the support they need. If they are not, we follow up to get them the needed support. In rare cases where the family cannot properly care for the child, for any reason, we look for an alternate placement. The goal is a safe and loving home for every child.

How do you select partner organizations?

We start by looking closely at the services a local partner is able to provide. We meet with their staff and talk to others about their performance. Usually partner organizations are well known in a country and it is easy to learn about them. We only partner with organizations that have a child protection policy and plan. If they don’t, they need to be willing to develop one either on their own or with our support. The safety of the children is always our top priority.

Why Donate?

Why should i donate to help solve the orphanage crisis.

It is very common for unknowing and well-meaning individuals and organizations to donate directly to orphanages which perpetuates the orphanage crisis rather than helping to solve it. All orphanages are unable to meet the emotional and developmental needs of the children they serve and 80-90% of the children they serve have at least one living parent. These children deserve to be with their families! Those who want to help these vulnerable children should donate to organizations who are reuniting children with their families, are supporting families to stay together, and are working to solve the overall orphanage crisis…like Changing the Way We Care ℠!

Why should I choose ChangingTheWayWeCare.org?

If you are looking to donate to an organization that is dedicated to solving the orphanage crisis, please consider Changing the Way We Care ℠. In this global movement, CRS and Maestral have come together to bring decades of experience and expertise, working with vulnerable children around the world, to promote family-based care. We have started our work in Moldova, Kenya, and Guatemala and, as funding becomes available, we will expand to more countries where we have government and civil society support.

How do I donate?

It’s easy. Just click the blue “Donate” button at the top right-hand corner of this page Thank you for considering a donation to Changing the Way We Care ℠.

Ways to get involved with ChangingTheWayWeCare.org

How do i sign up for changing the way we care emails.

Return to the homepage and scroll all the way to the bottom to a section titled “Stay Connected.” Once you are there, fill in your information and click on the Sign Up button!

How can I get involved with Changing the Way We Care beyond donating?

Educating and Advocating

Understanding the issues is the first step in Changing The Way We Care . We can all inform ourselves about the current orphanage crisis around the world and understand that even in the best of orphanages, children are not getting what they need: a family. Research shows that children need the support and consistency of a loving home, which even the best orphanages cannot provide. By informing ourselves, we can turn our good intentions into good actions and do the right thing for vulnerable children. Learn More

Spreading the Word

Changing The Way We Care means changing the way people think about orphanages and vulnerable children. Widespread change is never easy or fast, however. But with your help, we can spread the word about how we are changing the way we care. Follow us on  Twitter .

Hosting an Information Session

Does your church, school or community organization support an orphanage overseas? Have you ever traveled abroad to volunteer in an orphanage? Did you know that by trying to do good you may unknowingly be supporting a harmful and growing industry?

With our help, hold an informational session for your organization that will answer any questions you have about helping orphans and how you too can make an informed decision to Change The Way You Care . Connect With Our Outreach Team link

Can’t find the answers to your questions? Contact us.

Due to the high volume of inquiries, we are unable to respond personally to each one, but we will try.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Changing the Way We Care and the orphanage crisis. We cannot do this life-giving work without you!

ReThink Orphanages USA

Improving the lives of vulnerable children.

Support for orphanages from the USA stems from three main sources: gap year travellers, students engaging in global service learning, funding from churches and support from short-term mission teams. It is estimated that more than two million Christians from north America participate in short-term mission trips every year. 

At the end of 2017, ReThink Orphanages established its third regional Hub, in the US, bringing together individuals and organisations representing child protection, international aid and development, travel, education and Christian faith communities working to prevent family separation and the unnecessary institutionalization of children. 

The USA is the only nation in the world to have a whole-government strategic  action plan for improving the lives of vulnerable children overseas. 

It sets out three  objectives:

• To build strong beginnings:  The US Government will help ensure that children under 5 not only survive, but also thrive by supporting comprehensive programs that promote sound development of children through the integration of health, nutrition, and family support.
• To put family care first : US Government assistance will support and enable families to care for their children; prevent unnecessary family-child separation; and promote appropriate, protective, and permanent family care.
• To protect children: The US Government will facilitate the efforts of national governments and partners to prevent, respond to, and protect children from violence, exploitation, abuse, and neglect.

We believe this can only be achieved if the US shifts the way businesses, educational institutions, churches and citizens engage with overseas aid and development.

Please get in touch if you would like to connect with the US Hub.

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Why There's A Global Outcry Over Volunteering At Orphanages

The dormitory in an orphanage in Vietnam. Godong/Universal Images Group via Getty hide caption

The dormitory in an orphanage in Vietnam.

There's a growing global campaign which may seem harsh and heartless. The message: Don't visit orphanages.

Last year, the British government updated its travel advice to discourage tourists from visiting or volunteering in orphanages, saying it could have "serious unintended consequences." In April, the Dutch parliament held a debate on the practice and its connection to human trafficking.

And at an October conference for global leaders sponsored by the One Young World group, author J.K. Rowling spoke on the issue: "Despite the best of intentions, the sad truth is that visiting and volunteering in orphanages drives an industry that separates children from their families and puts them at risk of neglect and abuse."

There are at least 2.7 million kids in orphanages and institutionalized care around the world, according to UNICEF's latest estimate from 2017 . The actual number is likely far higher, the agency says, because many countries don't include children living in privately run facilities in their tallies.

For decades, spending time in orphanages has been a popular voluntourism activity. Critics call it "orphanage tourism." Sometimes it's a preplanned trip with a full week at the institution, arranged by an organization, church or travel agency. Other times, a vacationer might just set aside a couple hours to visit an orphanage and play with the kids.

Although the unregulated nature of orphanage tourism means there are no reliable numbers on how many volunteers participate each year, the practice is widespread enough that the U.K. and Australia as well as the U.S. have taken public stands.

These trips can bring a lot of money into orphanages in the form of fees and on-site donations. In addition, visitors often convince family and friends back home to make significant donations as well. Orphanage Support Services Organization (OSSO), for example, has volunteer opportunities in Ecuador and Thailand with a $190 application fee, a requested $100 donation and a $695 fee for one week to cover living expenses, transportation to the orphanage and other expenses.

According to their founder, Rex Head, most of those fees cover the costs of a volunteer's stay as well as living expenses and additional costs for an on-site volunteer director. Any leftover fees go to the orphanage. Head, who is a doctor, says the staff at his medical practice take care of OSSO's other administrative duties, and the organization donates an additional $300,000 to $400,000 in goods and cash from other funding streams each year to orphanages.

Critics say there's a problem with this type of community service and generosity. All that money has led unscrupulous institutions to promise food, education or a better life to recruit children from families into the orphanages, according to the U.S. Department of State's 2018 Trafficking in Persons report . "Child finders," as the report calls the recruiters, capitalize on parental concerns about poverty, conflicts, natural disasters and a lack of resources for a child with disabilities in order to convince parents to turn over their children, who are then used to attract lucrative international donations and volunteers.

A Save the Children report published in 2009 estimated that globally, at least four in five children in institutional care have at least one living parent. (The estimate is based on surveys and studies conducted by government agencies and nongovernmental organizations in seven countries plus Central and Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union to determine if children in institutions have one or both parents alive.)

The Trafficking in Persons report says that some institutions force children to perform traditional dances or interact with visitors to encourage more donations. In addition, the report notes, they are sometimes malnourished or not given sufficient medical attention to garner more sympathy — and money from visitors and donors. Between the recruiting and the forced labor, critics are calling these practices modern slavery. In 2018, Australia became the first country to criminalize recruiting children into orphanages as a form of slavery.

What's more, some researchers who study child welfare question the role of all orphanages.

The United Nations' Convention on the Rights of the Child declares that every child has the right to grow up in a family environment, and its Guidelines for the Alternative Care of Children states that institutional care should be a temporary "last resort" for the "shortest possible duration."

Andrea Freidus , an assistant professor of anthropology at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, says that in her extensive research of orphans and orphanages in southern Africa, she found that extended families and social networks are "very resilient" as an alternative to institutionalization.

"[Orphans] are just not abandoned in the way people in the West think," says Freidus. "If there are family networks that these children are willing to go to, then why institutionalize them? We don't do that in the U.S. anymore, and most [Western] European countries don't do it anymore, because we know it's bad for kids."

Many studies, going back decades, conclude that children who grow up in institutions have poorer outcomes. For example, a 2006 UNICEF report cited a study in Russia that suggested that "one in three young people who leave residential institutions becomes homeless, one in five ends up with a criminal record, and one in ten commits suicide." Other studies point to increased rates of mental illness, physical and intellectual underdevelopment as well as a higher risk of being trafficked .

"If you really want to help them, help their extended families take care of them," says James Kassaga Arinaitwe , CEO and co-founder of Teach for Uganda and an Aspen Institute New Voices Fellow. Arinaitwe was raised by his grandmother after his mother died of cancer and his father of AIDS.

Even if children in an institution have a positive experience with a short-term volunteer, there's a potential downside. When the volunteer departs, a child's feelings of abandonment and emotional stress can be heightened, the U.S. Department of State's Trafficking in Persons report warns.

But some researchers still think the right kind of group setting can be beneficial. Kathryn Whetten , a Duke professor of public policy and director of the Center for Health Policy and Inequalities Research, is one of them. She's been studying a group of 3,000 orphaned and separated children in Cambodia, India, Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania since 2005.

"We see the same continuum of bad and good care in the group homes as we see in the family settings," Whetten told NPR last year . "What the kids really seem to need is a home-like environment."

Bud Philbrook, CEO and co-founder of Global Volunteers , an organization that assigns short-term volunteers to various development projects abroad, including a children's home in Peru, says it's "irresponsible" to condemn all orphanages.

"To use a broad brush and say all orphanages are somehow adversely affecting the children is problematic," Philbrook says. "Ideally, we want children to be with their parents at home, but that requires parents to be able to [feed] their kids and ensure their health care and education."

OSSO's founder, Head, says that in the 24 years he's worked with orphanages, he's certainly come across unscrupulous institutions, but he's worried that the backlash against orphanages will send children into abusive families, either their own or in foster care without sufficient oversight.

"Good foster care is better than a good orphanage, but bad foster care isn't," Head says. "The most important thing for children is that they are loved, and that can happen in many types of settings."

Still, more groups are opting to put a stop to orphanage visits. In September, the Association of British Travel Agents partnered with the British charity Hope and Homes for Children to set up a task force that aims to discourage tourists, governments and travel agencies from supporting orphanage tourism. VSO — which committed in 2016 to no longer send volunteers to orphanages — also helped launch a " Global Standard for Volunteering in Development " in October. Organizations can use these guidelines to design responsible volunteering opportunities, ones that are led by local communities, promote cultural exchange and bring in individuals with skills that aren't available locally.

VSO hopes that, as more organizations commit to the "Global Standard," orphanage tourism can be eradicated.

"Just because it's been happening for decades doesn't mean it's right," says Chloe Setter, senior adviser on trafficking, modern slavery and voluntourism at Lumos , the children's rights organization founded by Rowling in 2005. The idea isn't to shame orphanage volunteers, she says, but to start "questioning and challenging our own beliefs."

Joanne Lu is a freelance journalist who covers global poverty and inequity. Her work has appeared in Humanosphere , The Guardian , Global Washington and War is Boring . Follow her on Twitter: @joannelu

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Top 10 Questions: Orphanage Visits

Are you ready for your Trip of a Lifetime ?  For 17 years Lotus Travel has been arranging and accompanying families to China on Heritage Tours.  Over the years, we have put together a travel guide to help families know what to expect. For many families, a visit to their child's orphanage  is the highlight of their travel through China .  

1.  What exactly happens during an orphanage visit?

It can vary greatly. Factors affecting this include orphanage director “persona”; how often families return; and daily priorities of staff.  At times, families are greeted (literally) with a firecracker ceremony; at other locations there is a short, perfunctory meeting.  There is no one exact “formula” for an orphanage visit.  Generally however, there is a welcome meeting with the director and staff, possibly an opportunity to review the file, followed by a limited tour of a  portion of the facility.  These activities typically takes a good section of a morning, which flows into taking the director and staff to lunch.  

  2.  My child wants to see the children at the orphanage and hug and hold the babies there. Can we do that?  

Most state-run orphanages don’t allow this type of interruption to their daily routine. Staff  are responsible for the daily routines; visiting families are an interruption to those routines. Staff often will shield older children from the view of a returning family, to lessen the reminders to the remaining kids that they lack a forever family. Your local guide will help you navigate this appropriately

3.  Our family would like to meet with our child’s primary caregiver from the orphanage.  Is that possible?

It is often possible. However, do keep in mind that if you are returning 10 or more years after an adoption, the caregiver may have moved away.  The earlier a return trip is planned, the more likely it is to connect with a  caregiver. If the caregiver still works at the orphanage, some directors facilitate this. Many caregivers excitedly anticipate a baby’s return.  However it can be naïve to assume it is always happens this way.  Some caregivers have cared for more than one hundred children and can’t remember each child in their charge.  Be practical and realistic. Also, it is not unusual for families to return and the old orphanage building is gone and to be visiting a new facility.  Just as your child has changed dramatically from when he or she left the orphanage, people in the birth country have also experienced many changes.

4.  Will we be allowed to see the orphanage file of my child and what might be in it?

The practice will vary greatly.  Some directors follow a practice that the child themselves will be granted access to that information at the time she/he becomes of adult age.  Quite a few others allow for easy review of the file, often allowing families to take photos.  However, most directors will decline to grant “formal” approval of making “official” copies.  Typically, documents in an orphanage file include: the child’s abandonment report, police report, notes or papers that may have been left, and possibly medical notes.   

Sometimes reviewing the file will bring up unexpected challenges, such as receiving a different birth date than the one you were given and have used all these years.  You, as the parent might want to look at the file alone, with only the translator. If something unexpected is in the file you can take that information and make it available to the child when you feel it is appropriate for them to process and re-evaluate.

5.  Is it possible to visit the finding spot of my child?  

Yes, if this is of interest for your or family member it is often accomplished. Sometimes one parent decides to visit that spot  on their own, while the other parent stays with the child. This is an intensely personal decision; only you can determine if this is something you’d like to accomplish.  If all or part of your family chooses to try to locate this spot, anticipate that you or your child may have a strong emotional reaction to this experience.  

Since, this is often the most emotional aspect of the entire trip, allow yourself time and space to process your own emotional reaction.  Don’t allow your emotions to overwhelm your child and “crowd out” the space that your child needs in order to process this piece of her (or his) story. Be prepared to support your child as they go through getting acquainted with the physical reality of this part of their story and help them process the experience later, via journaling, or discussing.  We recommend after the emotional pieces of the trip, you plan some low-key activities, such as swimming at the pool, playing at the park with friends from the trip, or movie and popcorn at the hotel, just to unwind and process the day’s events

6.  What should we anticipate at the finding spot location, and how do we prepare?

Some parents find themselves totally caught off guard by the physical reality of the finding spot itself.   Think through some preparation steps for yourself as well as your child.  Based on what information you may already have, anticipate possible scenarios and what options you prefer. Is it likely to have changed significantly since your child was placed there?  How reliable is the information that you have?  Do you have conflicting reports about the finding spot?   Is this spot likely to be a crowded spot? Is your child emotionally mature enough to visit this location?  Is it in a small, obscure village where visiting foreigners will attract a lot of attention?  If you draw a crowd, how does your child handle that?

Think through how to make an exit strategy available to your child ahead of time.  This allows your child to say something meaningful to you but insignificant to others.  It can be a simple, pre-arranged phrase that your child says to you such as “I really hate yellow umbrellas, don’t you?”  This pre-arranged “code” can be easily spoken in public by your child. And you, as the adult, can shift into removing your child from the situation without any fanfare or explanation to others as to why you are leaving.  Having this option and control over the situation can help alleviate your child’s concerns, and give you a comfort level in knowing how to support them.  Some families like to make it a personal and meaningful connection to that site via bringing something from their home, such as a rock from their yard and leave it there; and to pick up a rock from that location and take it home to remember the family connection to the site. This is something you can discuss with your child ahead of time, and ask for her ideas. Is there some family ceremony or other meaningful way that you would like to connect to this part of your child’s history? 

7.  What is the most surprising aspect of an orphanage visit for returning families?

Oftentimes families and children are taken aback at the number of disabled children at a facility. If visiting kids meet or see others their age it often causes deep reflection around “Why me?” or “Why not me?”, referencing some inklings of “survivor guilt”.   Most Chinese orphanages are part of a Social Welfare Institution, which serves as nursing home and facility for mentally disabled individuals. Some discussion and preparation regarding these realities and also differences and similarities in how different countries care for elderly or orphaned children, can bring some context and preparation for the visit.

8.  Who can guarantee that our visit to the orphanage will be approved ?  No one single person can guarantee access to each orphanage; each orphanage director has final authority to grant or deny a visit following other approval steps.  In China, provinces now work through a centralized visit request process via the CCWA.  Lotus Travel has a long history of relationships throughout China and Southeast Asia and have been highly successful in securing approval for such requests.  Each orphanage visit request is handled with great care.  For families with two or more children, it is routine to arrange two or more visits during one trip.    

9.  My child is ambivalent about the orphanage visit part of the trip.  I am not sure if my child will really want to go through with the visit.   What should I do?

This can be a common challenge.  Going ahead and submitting paperwork requesting a visit is a good idea, as it allows for most options. For a private tour, or a custom trip, it is easy to opt out of a visit while you are in China if you and your child feel it is too much. Your family can spend the day doing other sightseeing or just visiting the hometown area, etc.  ) Having  a thorough discussion with the child before the trip will help the child in deciding if they want to visit or not. Help the child understand what to expect and what not to expect is key to preparing them for this visit.

10.  Our family would like to bring back something special for the orphanage itself.  Can we do this, and if yes, what should we purchase?

Often, it is possible to purchase requested items while in China, such as a CD player and CD tapes with music, or a computer for the children of the orphanage. If the orphanage does not let you know of any special need, some suggested gifts are: school and art supplies; school backpacks (highly favored); or a bit of candy . As for staff gifts, a small scrapbook or photo book of your child’s life can be a particularly meaningful gift.  For other courtesy gift suggestions, a basket of fruit is considered a courteous gesture.

For more information on heritage travel to China, please visit our website at  LotusTours.net

Lotus Travel

Travel with the most reliable and trusted name for heritage travel.  We have been "Uniting Families and Connecting Cultures" for more than 2 decades -- www.lotustours.net

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 VISITS TO SCHOOLS, ORPHANAGES & MAASAI VILLAGES

“Would we allow a Tanzanian that we’ve never met before to do the same thing in our home town?”

A simple question. But maybe the only one that matters. For sure it’s the first questions we ask ourselves before deciding whether or not a certain activity should be on our program. And the main reason why some are not. 

Below, we want to take a moment to talk about some activities that we regularly get asked about and that are very commonly organized here in Tanzania, but that we don’t or only partly organize. Please be prepared for an unfiltered version of the actual situation in these places, and what really happens during these visits. 

VISITS TO SCHOOLS

It’s important to know that any school that you can visit in Tanzania is per definition a school for children that are vulnerable in some way. Only schools that are not funded by the government, and that need donations to survive, will allow people to visit. In these schools, you’ll find children whose parents aren’t able to pay the public school fees, children with learning or mental difficulties, street children, children that have been the victim of abuse, etc. 

Let’s be clear: we are not against donations in order to support local schools. (*) 

But when you visit a place like this, you will automatically be taken into the classrooms, where you’ll go and disturb children during class. Children that are already vulnerable because of their home situation. Children that are already behind in their learning process for whatever reason possible. Children that only go to school a few days per week because the rest of the time they need to work to support their family. Children that often already struggle with staying focused. Children that are suddenly treated like a tourist attraction. Multiple times per month, week or even day. 

Would you allow a Tanzanian that you’ve never met before to disturb your children during class once a month, week or day? 

… or even just once? 

(*) We support donations to local schools under certain conditions. First of all, we think that projects like these should be led by the community, respect their culture and respond to their needs. We also think children deserve and need stability and really believe that schools that hire local, trained teachers are so much better than those that work with foreigners that come and go. Some stay as little as 2 weeks, which creates huge attachment and abandonment issues for the children and many of them aren’t even trained to be a teacher. There’s also thousands of local teachers that can’t find a job, but who do know the children’s culture and can offer a much more stable and recognizable environment for them. So if you really want to help, please reach out and we’ll share our favorite projects depending on your itinerary. 

VISITS TO ORPHANAGES

Everything that’s written above about schools is also true here. But there’s an extra layer when it comes to orphanages. 

80% of children in Tanzanian orphanages are not orphans. (source: Unicef)

We’ll say it again.

80% of children in Tanzanian orphanages are not orphans. 

They have at least 1 living parent, and on top of that they usually have grandparents, aunts and uncles and other family members. 80% of the children in orphanages didn’t go to an orphanage because their parents died, but simply because their parents are poor. 

Reports from eg. Unicef show that living in an orphanage is almost always detrimental to children when it comes to care, attention, love and to their social, emotional and cognitive development and it increases their risk of eg. abuse and suicide. Over 90% of orphanages are opened and managed by foreigners or foreign institutions, and many of them are faith-based, which simply and plainly falls under white saviorism. 

There’s a few projects that focus on reuniting families and providing them with the necessary support to do so (which, according to Unicef, is 4 times cheaper than keeping the children in an orphanage), but they’re rare. Why? Because it’s easier, and it brings in more money when you put the children in an orphanage. 

One more time…

So we hope you’ll understand that we don’t support orphanages in any way, but only organizations that focus on reuniting families and giving them the support they need to stay together. 

Or would you allow a Tanzanian that you’ve never met before to take your children away from you just because you’re struggling? 

VISITS TO MAASAI VILLAGES

When it comes to Maasai villages, of course it’s a bit different than dealing with vulnerable children in orphanages. In this case we’re talking about adults that can make their own decisions, and children who live with their families. 

But those same, simple questions remain.

Would we allow a Maasai that we’ve never met before to walk into our bedroom just to have a look? Would we allow them to pick up our children and post selfies with them on their Instagram? Would we allow them to crash our special celebration just because we have a tradition that they’ve never seen before? 

We know our answer, and we’re pretty sure we can guess yours.

To make sure you know exactly what the ‘standard’ Maasai village visit looks like, we want to explain it in a few words. And it only takes a few words, because usually you spend less than an hour in these villages, half of which is in the souvenir shop. When you arrive, you watch the Maasai do their famous jumping, which is totally staged as it is not at all part of daily life. Next, you’ll spend a few minutes inside somebody’s house / bedroom and then you’ll go to look at their children in a staged classroom for another few minutes, before heading to the souvenir shop where you’ll experience quite some pressure to buy something that you’ll probably never use. And that’s it. No room for conversation. No exchange, nothing learned. Just a human zoo that isn’t pleasant or respectful for anyone involved.

So rather than offering you to do the same thing, we suggest something different. We want these visits to be all about a real exchange, and we are convinced that this is only possible if you’re genuinely interested, willing to ‘get uncomfortable’ and dedicate a minimum amount of time. 

We offer immersive stays in just 1 village, on the east shore of Lake Natron. It’s a village far away from mass tourism that doesn’t even have a souvenir shop, and that offers zero comfort from a western point of view. Because we strongly believe that this is how you respectfully discover a culture like this: by getting uncomfortable. 

So you can expect to get your hands dirty, to be totally surrounded by the cattle and deal with the smell that comes with it, to discover how their main source of water is a pond with stagnant water that they share with their animals, to meet people who attach zero financial value to time or who migh t no t  wish to send their children to school, to experience the excruciating heath that always seems to be present at the lake, to witness and learn more about things like polygamy and partners that don’t get to pick each other, or to have an empty bucket for a chair.

We  can organize village visits of different lengths, the minimum being half a day.  We don’t just drop you off in the village and let you have a look. Instead, we propose activities such as starting a fire, milking a goat and preparing tea. Nothing spectacular like the famous jumping, but activities that are actually part of the daily life of the Maasai. 

But before heading to the village , we first plan almost a day for you to spend time with  your guide – who comes from the village – at your camp and during another  activity. This way you can get to know each other and both him and your group  can feel comfortable around each other before heading to the village. This has  a huge positive effect on how you interact with each other and really helps to  create a much deeper exchange. 

Please  ask him all your questions. The easy ones and the difficult ones. Start a conversation and don’t shy away from the sensitive subjects. He loves to share and to learn more about  y our  culture as well. We have conversations with him about how important education is for him, but also about how other people in the village find it totally useless. About relationships between partners and having multiple wives. About whether he believes as much in education for men as for women. About taking care of the cattle and how they charge their phone knowing there’s no electricity in the village but also about female genital mutilation… Because even though this practice has been forbidden in Tanzania since 1998, it does still happen in certain villages. 

This, to us, should be the purpose of this visit. Because you won’t learn anything about a culture by spending 5 minutes in a person’s house or watching them perform a celebratory ritual. Yes, some of the things you’ll learn might be shocking, but that’s exactly the point. We’re not interested in reinforcing stereotypes but only in showing you a realistic, deeper side of the culture. 

Are you ready to dive head first into a real Maasai experience, with time for exchange, education and respect? Are you interested in this adventures because of the culture shock, not in spite of it?  Let us know. We’d be delighted to organize it for you! 

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Migombani Camp is located opposite the entrance of Lake Manyara National Park and the perfect starting point for a visit to most of the parks. It’s located on top of a hill and offers a breathtaking view of the national park. You can enjoy the views around the infinity pool during the day or relax around the campfire in the evening.

Migombani offers both camping and glamping options. If you pick camping, we’ll set up your tent in the large central grass field. Food will be prepared by your personal chef and you’ll eat at camping tables and chairs on the grass field.  

Sarah, Duchess of York makes an emotional visit to meet Ukrainian orphans living in Bucharest

The duchess spent time with orphaned children now living with the jewish charity tikva in romania after fleeing their home in odessa, ukraine.

Sarah, Duchess of York has shown her support and compassion for the orphaned children of Ukraine with an emotional visit to the Tikva charity's children's home in Romania's capital Bucharest.

During a two-day visit – and accompanied every step of the way by  HELLO!  – Sarah met Ukrainian refugees as she toured the Tikva orphanage, which looks after Jewish orphans from Ukraine and the neighbouring regions of the former Soviet Union.

Eleven years on from the Duchess' first visit to the charity at its base in Odessa, the community has experienced the heartbreaking trauma of leaving their home country - fleeing the Ukraine-Russia conflict on a perilous journey across the border - to set up a safe haven in Bucharest.

As the Duchess looked around Tikva's new children's home, school and housing for its alumni orphans, she told us why she identifies with the plight of refugees.

“None of us can know what it’s like to have to leave the life you’ve had with your belongings in a plastic bag and start a new life as a refugee, depending on the support of others," she said.

“I have worked with displaced people for over 30 years, starting with the Bosnian War in 1992.  

“I came to the Ukrainian border three times last year with my charity Sarah’s Trust, bringing items of aid. I’m constantly humbled by the bravery, love and determination that I encounter among refugee communities.

"And while I would obviously never compare myself to anyone in that situation, I feel I have a tiny sliver of understanding of what it’s like to lose your world, my mother having left the family when I was 11.”

Duchess Sarah, mother and grandmother

Wearing a bracelet bearing the names of her daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, the royal mother told us how she instilled a sense of empathy and compassion in her girls from a young age. "They were born to learn about charity, they were born to give," she said

Donate to Tikva

"[As children], if they were complaining and moaning, I'd put them outside in the freezing cold… then they would complain and moan, and I'd say, 'Well, imagine what it's like if you're in the middle of nowhere with no coat and never can get a coat'. They soon stopped moaning.

“It was probably moaning at something like, 'Why are we watching Barbie and not watching something else', nothing serious," adds Sarah, who marked the girls’ 18th birthdays by taking them to a unit run by the Teenage Cancer Trust. "I wanted to teach them how to take the hand of a person who's dying," she explains.

The Duchess visits Tikva

Sarah’s deep compassion was evident throughout the journey we shared with her.

There is an emotional reunion with new mother Vika, who first met the Duchess as a child in 2013 in Odessa, where she was photographed presenting her with a bunch of flowers. Now living in an apartment block for adult orphan refugees, Vika was delighted to see Sarah again – and to introduce her to her two-week-old son Pinchas.

Picking the baby up for a cuddle, Sarah said: "I've seen children like Vika since she was very little when I went to Odessa in 2013, and she's now pushing a pram with her lovely husband and baby. So, this is hope, this is longevity, and this is the Rabbis and Tikva saying, 'You'll never be without us, we'll always be here for you.'"

The Duchess also talked to Decebal, a housing developer who has provided the 230 new apartments, as well as office space which the charity has converted into an orphanage, Sarah says: "That is an extraordinarily kind generous act, I can't thank you enough.  Why do you think you're so kind?” To which Decebal replies: "All the Romanians are like me".

Touring the orphanage and school

At the orphanage, Tikva's community of children and alumni greeted the Duchess with an array of cheerful banners and flags.

"As you come through the gates, you feel Odessa, you feel the Ukrainian hope, the courage, the sense that one day we will get home, we will rebuild, and if not, until then this is their home - and it does feel like home,” she said. “There is that sense of 'You are not alone'."

Sarah read a bedtime story to a group of young children gathered around her, and her maternal nature shone through. One little boy sat on her lap and showed her his toy sword, and he and the other children listened captivated as she read them the Princess and the Pea, and her own book, A Gift of Kindness.

On the second day of her visit, Sarah toured schools attended by around 500 orphans and children from the local community. She immediately put a nervous young girl called Eliana at ease.

"I started with 'hello' and she wrote 'hello' back. She copied my writing," the Duchess told us. "I wrote 'I know you must be scared'. She didn't quite understand so someone translated it quickly, and then I drew a heart, and she drew a heart.

“I could feel the energy moving and shifting. It was seriously one of the most poignant moments of many, many years. It was very beautiful because it was drawing Eliana out of this tremendous fear, then at the end when she looked up at me… and that hug."

The young children in the kindergarten sang for her, the Duchess then handing out sweets and pencils with her famous 'Little Red' doll on top. “The little doll is so you know there is someone in England thinking of you," she tells them.

Supporting Tikva and the Jewish faith

"It feels very wholesome to support Tikva," she shared. "By doing that you are supporting the Jewish faith globally and I feel strongly about that. You're uniting Rabbis all over the world to say, 'We're here, Tikva, you have hope' and we must spread awareness to fight for peace. It's such a beautiful message."

The most striking thing about the Duchess is how much she cares - about children and adults alike.   "Wherever I go in the world, I love people. I'm a communicator, I love to learn from other people, I love to feel it," said Sarah.

"I speak from the heart, because I can't imagine what it must be like to not know how you're going to feed your child. So, when I go to these extraordinary places like Tikva, when I'm in the field and working, I'm solely there. I am very present."

Tikva needs to raise $16m (£12.8m) a year to meet all their needs. To donate visit  tikvauk.org

To read the full interview, pick up the latest issue of HELLO! on sale in the UK now. You can  subscribe to HELLO!  to get the magazine delivered free to your door every week or purchase the digital edition online via our  Apple  or  Google  apps.

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Essay on Visit to Orphanage

Students are often asked to write an essay on Visit to Orphanage in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Visit to Orphanage

An unforgettable visit.

One sunny day, our school arranged a visit to a local orphanage. The building was large, painted in bright colors, and filled with children of all ages.

Meeting the Children

The children greeted us with bright smiles. They were eager to share their stories and play games. Despite their circumstances, their spirits were high.

Lessons Learned

The visit was a powerful reminder of the importance of kindness and generosity. It showed us that happiness doesn’t come from material possessions, but from love and care. This experience will always remain in my heart.

250 Words Essay on Visit to Orphanage

Introduction.

A visit to an orphanage is a life-changing experience as it is filled with emotions and sentiments. I had an opportunity to visit an orphanage as part of a community service project.

The Arrival

Upon arrival, I was struck by the tranquil atmosphere of the place. The building, though not extravagant, was neat and tidy, radiating a warm and welcoming aura.

Interaction with Inhabitants

Interacting with the children, I found a spectrum of personalities, each unique and special. Some were shy and reserved, while others were vibrant and energetic. Despite their circumstances, they exhibited resilience and optimism.

Activities and Engagement

We engaged in various activities like drawing, dancing, and storytelling. Their enthusiasm was infectious, their innocent laughter echoing around the room. The children’s artistic abilities and creativity were awe-inspiring, a testament to their untapped potential.

Reflection and Understanding

This experience made me reflect on the privileges I had taken for granted. It was a stark reminder of the disparity that exists in our society. These children, devoid of parental love and care, still managed to find happiness in the smallest of things.

In conclusion, the visit to the orphanage was a humbling experience, a poignant reminder of our societal obligations. It underlined the importance of empathy and kindness in our interactions. The strength and resilience of these children, despite their circumstances, is a lesson in courage and optimism.

500 Words Essay on Visit to Orphanage

The prelude: the decision to visit.

The decision to visit an orphanage was not a spontaneous one; rather, it was a culmination of a growing desire to contribute positively to society. The stark reality of countless children deprived of the fundamental joy of a family intrigued us, and we decided to spend a day at a local orphanage to gain a deeper understanding of their lives.

The Arrival: First Impressions

Upon arriving, we were greeted by the warm smiles of the children, a stark contrast to the austere building that housed them. The orphanage, though lacking in grandeur, was well-maintained, and the staff seemed dedicated to their roles. The children, ranging from toddlers to teenagers, were neatly dressed and appeared well-cared for, yet their eyes held a longing for something more profound than materialistic comfort.

The Interaction: Building Connections

As we interacted with the children, we were struck by their resilience and optimism. Despite the adversities they had faced at such young ages, their spirits were unbroken. They engaged in games, studies, and chores with enthusiasm, displaying a remarkable sense of camaraderie and shared responsibility. Their stories, although tinged with sadness, were inspiring. Each child, in his or her unique way, was striving to overcome the odds, dreaming of a brighter future.

The Revelation: Lessons Learned

The visit to the orphanage was an eye-opening experience, revealing a side of life often obscured by our daily routines. It underscored the importance of family and the immense role it plays in shaping an individual’s life. It also highlighted the power of resilience and the human spirit’s capacity to find joy amidst adversity.

The Aftermath: A Call to Action

Post-visit, we were left with a renewed sense of purpose. The experience served as a stark reminder of the societal responsibility we carry as privileged individuals. It emphasized the need for active participation in initiatives aimed at improving the lives of these children, whether through volunteering, donations, or advocacy for better policies.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Experience

The visit to the orphanage was not just a day spent in the company of children devoid of familial bonds; it was a profound journey into understanding the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of societal responsibility. It was a reminder that every child deserves love, care, and a chance to thrive. As we left the orphanage, we carried with us not just memories, but also a resolve to contribute in whatever way we could to better the lives of these children.

This experience was a poignant lesson in empathy, resilience, and social responsibility, and it is one that will resonate with us for years to come. It reminded us that while we cannot change every child’s life, we can certainly make a difference in the lives of a few. And sometimes, that’s all it takes to start a ripple of change.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on Orphanage
• Essay on Online Classes
• Essay on Novel

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Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Eliza’s Story?

Eliza Hamilton’s Orphanage? Yes, it’s still around today!

BE A PART OF ELIZA’S LEGACY — SUPPORT THE GRAHAM WINDHAM COMMUNITY.

GRAHAM WINDHAM IS ELIZA’S LIVING LEGACY

215 years later, Eliza Hamilton’s orphanage — now a family services agency called Graham Windham — is still helping kids get their shot. Graham Windham serves thousands of kids and families each year. Just like Eliza’s husband, these kids survived a tough start in life. Graham Windham provides services like family counseling and treatment, after-school academic support, health services, and other services that help kids thrive into adulthood.

“Can I show you what I’m proudest of? I established the first private orphanage in New York City.” ELIZA HAMILTON IN HAMILTON THE MUSICAL

JOIN GRAHAM WINDHAM IN FIGHTING TO GIVE EVERY KID & FAMILY THEIR SHOT

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• Summary: Visit a hospital, school or orphanage
• Price: Complimentary
• Duration: 1 - 2 hours
• Location: Arusha and Lake Manyara/Karatu Region

On your safari trip with Africa Dream Safaris, you will witness for yourself the beauty of Tanzania, reflected not only in its natural resources but also in the graciousness of the local people. We are certain you will be moved by both.

In appreciation for all the beauty and inspiration this amazing country has given us, it is time to GIVE BACK. It is our privilege to support several humanitarian projects and conservation efforts that have a positive impact the lives of the local people and wildlife in real, tangible ways. As a direct result of our efforts, children have gotten the basic medical attention they needed to survive and a proper education to rise above otherwise hopeless circumstances; more precious animals, some critically endangered, now have a real chance at sustained survival in the wild where they belong.

Our main sponsorship projects to date including the Foundation for African Medicine and Education, Serengeti Lion Conservation, Serengeti Cheetah Conservation, Poli Village School, The Peace House Orphanage and The School of St Jude. Sustained focus on these projects has resulted in real, lasting success. In addition to continuing our support of these efforts, we also hope to participate in many more such projects in the future!

By choosing Africa Dream Safaris, you will partner with our front-line efforts to improve the lives of the local people and conserve the precious wildlife that make their home here. And it is WORKING! We will be so grateful to have you on our team moving forward. Together, we can continue to make a real difference!

Hospital Visit

Tour the Foundation for African Medicine and Education (F.A.M.E.), a charitable organization that was founded to provide quality medical care to the local people living in rural Tanzania.

Monthly donations by Africa Dream Safaris help F.A.M.E. provide invaluable medical care to people living in the District of Karatu, a rural region between Lake Manyara National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater.

All guests traveling with Africa Dream Safaris are invited to stop by the FAME facility in Karatu for a brief tour and presentation. This excursion can be conducted on any safari itinerary as the FAME facility is located right off the main road between the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara. This brief tour is highly recommended and praised by returning guests.

Learn more about FAME

Orphanage Visit

By 2010, an estimated 20 million children under the age of 15 will have lost one or both parents to AIDS. Without parents to support them, many children are often forced to abandon school. Without an education, orphans face a bleak future with little hope. A survey of over 400 households with orphans in Tanzania reported that almost 40% could not cover even basic expenses. The most common difficulty was covering school fees, including those for materials and uniforms.

Guests travelling with Africa Dream Safaris are welcome to tour the facilities at a local orphanage in Arusha. This excursion can be conducted with an Arusha layover or on the last day of your safari if departing on the late night KLM flight.

Learn more about Peace House Orphanage

School Visit

In addition to a range of other cultural and charitable outreach opportunities, we offer our guests a chance to visit The School of St Jude, a charity funded school that provides a free, high-quality primary and secondary education to over 1,600 of the poorest, brightest children of the Arusha region in Tanzania. Here they can meet students - who come from the poorest families in Arusha - and find out how one classroom in 2002 has grown into three campuses, two boarding houses and a centre of employment for over 450 local Tanzanians.

This excursion can be conducted with an Arusha layover or on the last day of your safari if departing on the late night KLM flight.

Learn more about The School of St Jude

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540 West Hills Circle Owatonna, Minnesota 55060 Directions

Self-Guided Tour Hours Museum Monday-Friday: 8 am-4:30 pm Saturday-Sunday: 1 pm-5 pm Closed Major Holidays Cottage 11 Tuesday-Sunday May 1-Labor Day:1pm-4pm Labor Day-Dec 31: 1pm-3pm Closed January and February March 15-April 30: 1pm-3pm or by appt. at 507-774-7369 $2 per person donation appreciated. Campus Seasonal: May 1-November 1 Map available in main museum with QR codes. Six audio stations.

Group Tours We happily schedule guided tours for groups of 10 or more. You will visit the Museum, view a 1930 film, and tour Cottage 11, a restored boys' cottage. A fee is charged. Group Tours Page

The Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum was founded to "Remember the Children" who lived there. For each child, their experience was unique. Some found it a safe haven, while others found it traumatic.

Free entry to all Florida state parks Memorial Day weekend

Outdoor lovers who visit Florida's state parks will be able to save a few dollars on Memorial Day weekend.

During a Tuesday morning news conference in Naples, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced all entry fees to state state parks will be suspended for the holiday weekend.

Entry fees will be waived from May 24-27.

The governor made the announcement while speaking at the Naples Yacht Club.

"I'm proud that we have the best beaches. I'm proud that we have the best boating," DeSantis said. "I'm proud that we have the best fishing. I'm proud that we have the best state parks, and I'm happy to be able to announce that for all Florida residents, the entire four-day Memorial Day weekend, you go to those state parks free of charge."

He said his administration has invested more than $440 million into Florida's state parks since 2019.

Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Shawn Hamilton was also on hand for the announcement.

"Just last year ... we welcomed 29 million visitors to our state parks and generated $3.6 billion in economic impact," Hamilton said. "There's truly something for everyone."

There are 175 state parks, trails and historic sites in Florida.

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Paragraph on Visit to an Orphanage- by Anand

Introduction:

An orphanage houses children of various ages who either have no family or have lost their families in natural calamities.

The home usually has a care-taker who monitors the children of the orphanage and a few helpers to take care of the residents.

A visit to an orphanage is a life-changing experience as it is filled with emotions and sentiments. I had an opportunity to visit an orphanage as my cousin was a volunteer for a local non-governmental organization and it was the occasion of The International Day of Service.

Description of the Orphanage:

The orphanage house was situated in the outskirts of the city and was close to the national highway. It was a two-storey building with a garden out in the front and a small temple just on its east boundary. The walls of the home were old and the paint had worn off. It looked like the house was without maintenance for years together. There was a small girl who was peeking through the window on the first floor when we opened the gate.

Meeting the Children:

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When we entered the home, we were taken by surprise as there were more number of children than we had imagined. There was a common room where the children both boys and girls ranging from the ages of 3 to 21 years were seen. Some of them were indulged in watching the television, some were sipping soup from their bowls, some girls were busy playing with their dolls and others were staring at us.

We had brought with us food, blankets, drawing books, crayons, pencils etc. which we distributed amongst the children. They were ecstatic to have food from outside and were even more elated when they received the stationary from us. We segregated ourselves and went to talk individually to everyone.

My Personal Experience:

I went over to a small girl, about 6 years of age, who was sitting at the corner of the room staring at the glass window. I introduced myself and took a seat besides her. She greeted me with a smile and gave me a toffee which she had in her bag. She told me how her parents drowned in the flood which swept away their home and everything they had.

She was with her uncle at that time who left her in the orphanage because he was unable to attend to her. She started sobbing while narrating the story and then asked me about my parents and other things. I talked with her for quite some time and then gifted her set of drawing books, story books and crayons and she promised to paint something for me.

Conclusion:

The visit to the orphanage was a fulfilling experience for me as I came back home with not only memories but also some valuable lessons. When I reached home, I ran straight to my mother and hugged her tight saying that I loved her very much and also my father. She held me tight with teary eyes.

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Jewish and pro-Palestinian students at Columbia University accuse school officials of discrimination in competing complaints

Students at Columbia University have filed dueling discrimination complaints as confrontations between pro-Palestinian protesters and counterprotesters continue.

Combined, the two complaints underscore how political tensions over Israel’s military operations in Gaza since Hamas’ terrorist attack on Oct. 7 have become personal for thousands of students in the U.S.

A class action lawsuit filed Monday in the Southern District of New York accuses the university of violating safety protocols by allowing "extremist protesters" to intimidate Jewish students and “push them off campus” because of safety concerns.

A separate complaint filed Thursday with the Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights accuses the university of failing to protect students “who have been the target of extreme anti-Palestinian, anti Arab, and Islamophobic harassment on campus since October 9, 2023.”

The harassment includes receiving death threats, being called “terrorists” and other slurs, experiencing harassment while wearing keffiyehs or hijabs and being the targets of doxxing campaigns, according to the complaint.

Columbia students first set up protest encampments on April 17 calling for the university to divest from companies tied to Israel’s military operations in Gaza. Within days, the New York City-based protest spread to campuses across the country, sparking hundreds of arrests and drawing the attention of national and international leaders. 

On Thursday, after more than 100 people were arrested at protests at Columbia, Palestine Legal, a Chicago-based advocacy group, filed its complaint demanding an investigation into what it calls the university’s “discriminatory treatment of Palestinian students and their allies.”

The complaint filed Monday on behalf of several Jewish students requests an emergency injunction requiring Columbia trustees to better enforce the school’s code of conduct to allow class members to safely complete the semester in person.

“Indeed, despite its supposed commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, Columbia has allowed a small group of fringe demonstrators to target Jewish students and faculty with harassment, hate speech and violence for the sole reason that they are (or appear to be) Jewish. Columbia’s inaction and willingness to allow for such vile conduct is antithetical to fostering an environment of diversity, equity, and inclusion,” according to the complaint. 

“Since its formation, the encampment has been the center of round-the-clock harassment of Jewish students, who have been punched, shoved, spat upon, blocked from attending classes and moving freely about campus, and targeted by pro-terrorist hate speech,” the complaint reads in part.

The plaintiffs seek a jury trial and unspecified punitive damages.

University officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the complaints. Last week, the school began offering virtual learning options for students.“I know that many of our Jewish students, and other students as well, have found the atmosphere intolerable in recent weeks. Many have left campus, and that is a tragedy,” university President Minouche Shafik said in a statement Monday. “To those students and their families, I want to say to you clearly: You are a valued part of the Columbia community. This is your campus too. We are committed to making Columbia safe for everyone, and to ensuring that you feel welcome and valued.

Shafik’s statement did not mention Muslim students or Islamophobia.

Antiwar protesters have cautioned against conflating criticism of Israel’s military operations in Gaza with hate speech. Demonstrators have posted signs at the encampment outlining policies for treating everybody, including counterprotesters, with respect. Their ultimate message, according to student activists, is one of peace. 

But as demonstrations have escalated, both Jewish and Muslim students have said they feel targeted because of their beliefs. 

Some Jewish students told NBC News that they moved off campus or no longer wear items that identify their faith after having been spit on, shoved and harassed. Some Palestinian students say they have been targeted while wearing hijabs or keffiyehs.Columbia student Maryam Alwan said in a statement included in Palestine Legal’s complaint: “As a Palestinian student, I’ve been harassed, doxxed, shouted down, and discriminated against by fellow students and professors — simply because of my identity and my commitment to advocating for my own rights and freedoms.

“I’m horrified at the way Columbia has utterly failed to protect me from racism and abuse, but beyond that, the university has also played a role in this repression by having me arrested and suspended for peacefully protesting Israel’s genocide in Gaza,” she added.

It is difficult to quantify what some have described as a rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia on college campuses. Columbia, which has been a hotbed of protest activity, declined to provide numbers on reported incidents. 

Itai Dreifuss, 25, a junior studying financial economics and neuroscience, served in the Israeli Defense Forces for nearly three years until 2020. Columbia was the only school he applied to after he completed his service. “If it wasn’t going to be Columbia, I didn’t want to go to college,” he said.

His school pride dimmed as confrontations between students supporting the people of Gaza and those supporting Israeli forces escalated. 

Dreifuss, who is not involved in the lawsuit, said that in one instance, shortly after the war started in October, he was walking with an Israeli friend near the campus library speaking in Hebrew when a man spit on his back. 

“It took me a second to realize,” Dreifuss said, adding that he turned to ask the man whether he had spit on him intentionally.

Dreifuss said the man kept repeating, “I know what you’re saying.” He said the man then muttered under his breath that “I would kill you” if they were not in a pair.

“I was just shocked that entire time,” he said.

In another incident, Dreifuss said, a man on Columbia’s campus pulled out a Hamas flag and waved it in his face as he and his friends sang songs of peace.

“He just looked at me and said: ‘Let’s go, Hamas! Let’s go, Hamas!’” Dreifuss said, adding that it was not clear whether the man was a student. “He was in our faces, trying to get a reaction.”

Dreifuss said that his friends sought help from the police and the school’s public safety officers but that they did not receive any support.

“We went to the NYPD, and we went to public safety. Both the physical public safety officers and the office, and nothing,” he said. “There’s nothing to do. They said they couldn’t help with that.”

Campus public safety officials did not respond to a request for comment on the incident.

A New York police spokesperson said the agency does not track data or complaints specific to the university. 

Antisemitism has been rampant across the U.S. since October, according to the Anti-Defamation League. The human rights group said it recorded 3,291 incidents from Oct. 7 to Jan. 7, including assault, vandalism, written and verbal harassment and hate speech.

Anti-Muslim hate incidents — such as employment and education discrimination, hate speech and physical assaults and threats — have also increased, according to the Council on American-Islamic Relations. The nonprofit advocacy group said it received 8,061 complaints nationwide last year, the most in its 30-year history. Nearly half of them were reported in the final three months of the year, the group said.

Chaya Droznik, 22, a junior at Columbia who is not part of the lawsuit, said a demonstrator recently told her that “Oct. 7 is about to be every day for you guys.”

Supporters of the antiwar movement say the antisemitism some students described is not indicative of their broader message. Many of the protesters camped out at universities across the country are Jewish and have hosted large Seders and other actions to denounce Israel’s assault on Gaza.

Cameron Jones, an organizer for Jewish Voices for Peace at Columbia who has been a visible presence at the protest encampment, said he has not experienced antisemitic harassment. His group, which does not support the Zionist movement, observed Passover and Shabbat at the encampment.

“I am a Jewish student right here. I am very present in this environment, and, as a Jewish person who is an organizer for Palestinian liberation on campus, I have felt nothing but safety and love being involved in these spaces,” he said.

Doctoral student Nadia Ali, who is calling for a cease-fire in Gaza, denounced antisemitism and said antiwar messages are increasingly confused with hatred for Israel.

“Palestinians would be the first to relate to that pain,” she said. “It is unacceptable to feel unsafe on campus. But it is important not to conflate the call for justice and peace with antisemitic actions or hate speech.”

Alicia Victoria Lozano is a California-based reporter for NBC News focusing on climate change, wildfires and the changing politics of drug laws.

Melissa Chan is a reporter for NBC News Digital with a focus on veterans’ issues, mental health in the military and gun violence.

School lunches are changing: USDA updates rules to limit added sugars for the first time

School lunches may begin to look different next year.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture on Wednesday announced updated nutrition standards for school meals that will be gradually updated to include "less sugar and greater flexibility with menu planning" between Fall 2025 and Fall 2027.

“The new standards build on the great progress that school meals have made already and address remaining challenges - including reducing sugar in school breakfasts," said USDA's Food and Nutrition Service Administrator Cindy Long in the news release.

"These updates also make it easier for schools to access locally sourced products, benefiting both schools and the local economy," Long concluded.

No more Lunchables: Lunchables shouldn’t be on school menus due to lead, sodium, Consumer Reports tells USDA

What do the updated USDA guidelines change?

Added sugars will be limited in school meals nationwide for the first time, according to the USDA, with small changes happening by Fall 2025 and full implementation by Fall 2027.

The agency said research shows these added sugars are most commonly found in typical school breakfast items. Child care operators will begin limiting added sugars − which are different from total sugars − in cereals and yogurts by Fall 2025.

Additionally, there will be a new limit on added sugars in flavored milk served at school breakfast and lunch by next fall, and schools will need to "slightly reduce" sodium content in their meals by Fall 2027.

Lunchables shouldn't be on school menus, Consumer Reports tells USDA

The updated guidelines from the USDA comes weeks after Consumer Reports told the agency that Lunchables shouldn't be on school lunch menus because they contain a troublingly high level of lead and sodium.

“We don’t think anybody should regularly eat these products, and they definitely shouldn’t be considered a healthy school lunch,” Eric Boring, a chemist at Consumer Reports who lead the testing, said in a  statement .

The advocacy group said it tested 12 store-bought Lunchables products, made by Kraft Heinz and compared them to similar lunch and snack kits from other manufacturers.

Although none of the kits exceeded any legal or regulatory limit, the tests uncovered “relatively high levels of  lead , cadmium and sodium” in the Lunchables kits, said Brian Ronholm, director of food policy at Consumer Reports.

Classified as a human carcinogen, cadmium has been linked to kidney and bone disease, as well as cancer,  according to the World Health Organization.   However, because cadmium is a natural element present in the soil, it can't be altogether avoided.

As for  lead , no safe level exists for children to consume, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes.

“There’s a lot to be concerned about in these kits,” Amy Keating, a registered dietitian at Consumer Reports, said in a statement. “They’re highly processed, and regularly eating processed meat, a main ingredient in many of these products, has been linked to increased risk of some cancers.”

Contributing: Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X  @GabeHauari  or email him at [email protected].