James is a fifteen year old
street boy in China who comes from a very poor farming family. His mother left
home when he was only eight as she could not stand the pressure of their
poverty. His father continued to farm, but could not earn enough to support
James and his younger brother. When James was ten, he was asked to go to the
city to try and earn some money for the family. James was very sad to leave
home and his education, as he was the best student in his class.
In the
city, James joined various gangs of children working under merciless bosses
who made them work very long hours, and very hard, for a bowl of rice each
day. They had to sleep eight boys and girls together, on the boss’s bed in the
daytime and then go out to work on the streets from 6.00 pm till 5.00 am the
next morning. Their work consisted of collecting recyclable waste, washing
parked cars (without the driver’s consent), and stealing. All the income that
they earned had to be turned over to the boss, who promised to give their
families a sum of money at the Chinese New Year. Life was very hard and James
often got into trouble for stealing bicycles.
Sponsored! Happy and back with their parents!
Eventually
Li helped James to escape and return home. After sponsorship
by C S & P he was re-enrolled in school and hopes, one day,
to go to university. James’ family are very grateful to
Li for the parcels of clothing, shoes, medicines, books, and
the occasional financial gift, which she sends to help alleviate
their poverty.
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