Raising My Sister's Son

At only three years old, Juan has had a difficult life. He currently lives with his grandparents, his aunt Carla and uncle Guido because his mother died recently and his father abandoned him almost at birth.

As the needs grew in a country drowned in economic crisis, Carla became a beneficiary of the JDC's Social Assistance Programs. She receives food vouchers as well as support for Juan through JDC's Baby Help Program, which aims in providing for children's healthy development. "This program is helping us a lot. Juan received all the vaccines which are not covered by the State, like Hepatitis A and Chicken Pox, which are very expensive," explains Carla. Although Juan has always been a healthy boy, the Baby Help Program is also providing Juan with iron supplements, as he is underweight.

Carla works four hours a day as a receptionist in a doctor's office, but since the money she earns is not enough, JDC's help is essential for Juan and her family. Furthermore, Carla receives psychological support paid by the JDC, as her current situation of need and particularly her family history is very upsetting for her and the rest of the family. Coping with Juan's mother's death, taking full responsibility of the little boy, fighting for his legal custody and struggling to keep her only job is a heavy load for her to bear.

"I sometimes feel very bad. I didn't give birth to him but I must take care of Juan, even if my family and I are not able to give him everything he needs. I love him with all my heart, but I can't forgive my sister for abandoning her son one month after he was born. She's gone, but I'm still angry with her".

Jorge, Juan's grandfather feels the same: "I am sixty-six years old and I do not feel strong enough to be in charge of a three year old boy. I have already raised three children with my wife but I did so when I was younger. It breaks my heart to watch Juan grow up with so many needs that we cannot provide".

Despite his family's troubled situation, Juan is pampered as much as he can be and his family does their best to provide for him. Now, thanks to JDC's Baby Help Program he is growing up healthier and he will also start attending a JDC sponsored summer camp.

"Juan needs to play in the open air and make friends. I think this will be good for him and I feel secure that he will have fun within a Jewish environment. I am also happy to know that he will be getting proper meals everyday".