Pour un Sourire d’Enfant’s (PSE) mission is to help children escape from destitution and lead them to decent, skilled and well-paid jobs. Each child must be allowed to develop healthily, both physically and psychologically, and must also be well-educated. Our aim is for them to become balanced and independent adults both socially and professionally. To achieve this, six main programmes – adapted to the needs of the children – have been developed: food, health, protection, education & schooling, vocational training and help for families. FROM 20 TO MORE THAN 6,000 CHILDREN! In spring 1996, the adventure began. A score of children were given proper meals by the dumpsite: they were housed in rented accommodations that quickly filled up with new inhabitants.
Soon hundreds, and then thousands of young scavengers were saved.
For every challenge they confronted, Christian and Marie-France des Pallières found the solution in the best interests of the children.
Now, more than 6,000 children are looked after: they are fed, provided with healthcare, educated and given vocational training. With a high quality qualification, they are able to join the workforce and integrate into society. But there are still so many children out there to save...