Orphanages are common in the Ivory Coast. Most of these homes are run by individuals out of the kindness of their hearts. Most do not receive compensation from the government and rely on donations to provide for the children and young adults.
This orphange “Saint Genevieve” was started by a priest who witnessed many young mothers abandoning their children after birth because of superstitions. For example, if a child is born breach, they can be considered cursed because they are not submissive to their mother and come out head first. In some villages those babies are killed immediately after birth.
The artist in this photo was one of these children condemned to death. He was thrown into a chicken de-featherer as a baby when this man, a religious “Father”, pulled him out and claimed responsibility. This child lost part of his hand in the process but has risen above and become an artist even with his lame hand.
We periodically offer assistance to this orphange and commend this Father for being God’s hands and advocating for those who cannot speak for themselves. We are grateful for him and his service.
The shirts we are wearing are of a piece the artist painted the last time we visted.
