A childhood spent on the streets
Before she became a second-grade student with dreams and drawings filling her notebooks, one little girl from Prishtina knew only life on the streets.
At an age when most children are learning to read, draw, and dream about the future, she spent her days in public spaces – one hand asking for help, the other holding tightly to her little brother’s hand. She was only three years old.
Her family lived in an abandoned house without electricity, running water, or heating. At night, candlelight replaced electricity, while the streets became part of their daily reality and struggle for survival.
Yet even in those difficult circumstances, one thing never disappeared: hope.
A grandmother’s strength
Life became even harder when her father was imprisoned and her mother left. Despite her age and limited means, the children’s grandmother stepped in to care for them. With tired hands but unwavering determination, she became their main source of stability, love, and protection.
That was the beginning of a new chapter.
Support that changed their life
Through the Children’s Day Care Center in Prishtina, Terre des hommes Kosovo became part of the family’s daily life. Teams regularly visited, listened, and provided tailored support, ensuring the family was not left alone.
The Center’s psychologist worked with the girl to build self-confidence and emotional wellbeing. Social workers supported the grandmother through the legal guardianship process, while educators and teachers helped the child return to school and adapt to learning.
In 2024, after sustained support, the grandmother officially became the legal guardian of both children. That moment meant more than a document – it meant safety, dignity, and a fresh start.
Returning to school and rediscovering childhood
Today, the girl is a second-grade student. She goes to school every morning with her backpack, gradually finding stability after years of uncertainty. The transition was not easy, but with consistent support from her grandmother, teachers, and our team, she adapted and regained confidence.
Now she reads aloud, enjoys mathematics, and fills her notebooks with drawings of houses, flowers, and sunshine. Most importantly, she is no longer on the streets. She feels safe, has friends, and is finally living her childhood.
Her grandmother has also become a strong community reference, encouraging other families to support their children’s education.
Children’s Day Care Centres in Kosovo
Terre des hommes Kosovo runs Day Care Centres in Prishtina (since 2019) and Prizren (since 2023), in partnership with local municipalities. The centres provide a safe space for children in vulnerable situations, including those affected by street situations or violence.
They offer daily services such as meals, learning activities, psychosocial support, counselling, play, and family support, while also connecting children to education, healthcare, and protection services. A multidisciplinary team of social workers, psychologists, educators, and outreach staff works daily to support children and families.
In 2025, the centres supported 344 children and 115 parents through direct services, and reached 1,029 children through emotional wellbeing and outreach activities.
