The cries of children who have fallen ill

By Cayla McCoy

Among the bustle of a typical work day, cries permeate every moment. The cries of children who just want to be held and of the poor who have fallen ill. The need is evident, yet remains unheard. For the past few days, I have had the privilege of being in this place.

Garbage City is the poorest area in the nation of Egypt in which men gather the city's waste, women sort the materials, and children roam the streets hoping their dreams are attainable. While there, I helped at a Mother Theresa "daycare" that has around twenty five babies under a year old and forty toddlers who are being cared for as their parents work to put food on the table.

I was astonished by the chaos I was met with after opening the door. Although there were volunteers present, the ratio was around six kids to one adult. It was quite overwhelming to begin with, but gradually you just pick a child up to offer comfort and bring a smile. When another begins crying, you swap.

There is such joy in bringing a smile to a child's face! Singing songs, dancing, and cuddling are natural things that come to mind for many when thinking of childhood. The children here long for such attention. Although tired at the end of our time, there is nothing I would rather do than show these kids that they are valued and loved. The need is great, but the workers few. I've heard this many times; however, it comes to life when hearing the cries of Garbage City.

Not only do the children need companionship, but also many elderly who are extremely poor. We visited a woman with multiple symptoms yesterday and after a nurse checked her blood pressure, ended up taking her to the hospital.

She could not afford such a visit which costs $1.67 for an American. How much of an impact could be made in this place with merely someone committing to donate what they would spend eating out for dinner once each month?

As a college student, I am so thankful for the opportunity to be exposed to the ever present need that surrounds us. What a unique perspective to gain while going out into the world as an adult. I would encourage you to seek out how to make an impact and find simple ways to support this cause.