Representatives of Foundation Second, the competent social welfare service, and the Family and Child Support Service of the Sarajevo Public Institution Home for Children without Parental Care visited a family at risk that, in addition to material assistance, needs continuous professional and personal support. The visit was also attended by the Director of Foundation Second, Belma Mujezinović.

The girl currently lives with her grandfather, who took responsibility for her care after an extremely difficult period in her life. Despite his modest income and the fact that he lives on a minimum pension, her grandfather is doing his best to provide his granddaughter with a safe home and the stability she needs.

During the visit, representatives of the Foundation and professional services spoke with the girl and her grandfather about their needs, everyday life, and the support they will require in the period ahead.

Thanks to the Foundation’s donors, the Director of Foundation Second was able to provide the household with a substantial supply of food and hygiene essentials.

Yet perhaps what said the most about this girl was precisely what she did not ask for.

She is very modest. She asked for almost nothing for herself. Not even a new school backpack, although the one she currently uses is quite damaged and clearly needs replacing.

She was sincerely grateful for everything she received.

And when we talked about what would make her happy, what excited her far more than material things was the opportunity to go out, spend time with others, and meet new friends.

That is why we do not want our support for this girl to end with the bags of groceries we brought into their home today.

Director of Foundation Second Belma Mujezinović promised that the Foundation would provide the girl with a monthly scholarship of 50 BAM (25 EUR), as a small but continuous form of support for her education and development throughout this school year.

We also want to give her opportunities to socialize, make new friends, go on trips, and participate in activities with her peers. Because children need more than food, clothing, and school supplies. They need a sense of belonging, friendships, experiences, and beautiful memories.

And this girl has so much potential.

We were particularly impressed by her excellent command of English. She speaks it remarkably well, reminding us once again how much ability and talent can be hidden behind difficult life circumstances.

It is up to us, as adults, not to allow the circumstances in which children grow up to define who they can become.

The food will be consumed. The hygiene supplies will eventually run out as well.

But the feeling that someone came because of you, listened to you, noticed that you needed a new backpack, and wanted to open the door to new friendships and opportunities – we hope that feeling will stay with her for much longer.