First encounter with the street boys

The ministry that I am working along side with is called Saving Arms Foundation (SAF) This week they organized an outreach function for street children to obtain some basic needs. Upon arriving to the football (soccer) field, a large number of the 40+ street children greeted me very excitedly and curiously. Quickly learning my name as "Uncle”, the boys were all so intrigued by my tattoos and liked touching me, and even held my hand at times. The older boys were off playing football while the younger boys hung out with Pieter and I while waiting for the doctor to arrive.

As I interacted with the boys I immediately smelled gasoline on the boys breath. This is because in many parts of Uganda and other African countries individuals inhale jet fuel (also called jet oil), kerosene, and glues. While I was with the boys I witnessed them “huffing” or inhaling this jet oil numerous times. SAF has a rule that while the boys are at any function, they are not allowed to bring the jet oil or it will be confiscated and burned. Pieter and I confiscated approximately 6-7 bottles and burned them, which were obviously very flammable.

I continued on interacting with the boys, I arm wrestled many of them and learned how to say, “champion” in Ateso! I showed them how to get stronger, encouraged them, and told them about how the fuel makes them weak and dumb. Most of the children were there to see the doctor because they had jiggers, which is a parasitic flea that infects the feet. Not wearing or having footwear mainly causes this. The problem then becomes a vicious circle where they receive treatment for the jiggers but then they have to take treatment multiple times but then they will sell their treatment for substances like the jet oil. Following the doctor visit we handed out t-shirts to the boys. Lastly lunch was served; atapa, beans and posho.

The lingering smell of the fuel stayed with me well after I left the field. I began to think of how I too can relate and empathize with them in my own way. There is a clear addiction to substances here, especially in the jet oil. The addiction begins as the child uses to curve their appetite and also as a coping mechanism for the trauma they endure daily. Soon I hope to begin performing assessments to learn more of their history of family, crime, substance use, etc.

I care for these boys deeply already and I felt such a connection with them when they held my hand. My heart is sad for what these young boys endure and continue to go through as they sleep on the streets, hungry and lonely, all while they drown themselves in inhalants. I am still in awe of why God has chosen me, but I’m glad He did. But Joy comes in the morning (Ps30:5). Jesus will give them a new freedom and happiness. I look forward to my next encounter with these magnificent little boys.