The most common definition of a street child or youth is “any girl or boy who has not reached adulthood, for whom the street (in the broadest sense of the word, including unoccupied dwellings, wasteland, etc.) has become her or his habitual abode and/or sources of livelihood, and who is inadequately protected, supervised or directed by responsible adults” (Definition by UNICEF).

Street children face the hardships of life by living 24/7 on the streets, begging for food, sleeping anywhere, or just do anything to survive.  These hardships are varied from the lack of medical attention, terrible living conditions, and diseases caused by malnutrition or even no food at all.

Furthermore, as the result of the lack of protection, events like sexual abuse, violence, forced prostitution, exploitation, and trafficking are common things in their everyday life. Most of street children no longer have contacts with their family, minimum education, no direction and supervision from responsible adults.

Abuse and violence not only take place on the streets, but also at home. Neglect, sexual/physical/emotional abuse, and divorce or remarriage of biological parents are among the main reasons on why a child makes streets his/her new abode.

These unfortunate children cannot always depend on state’s help. They are absolutely on their own. Peduli Anak Foundation protects them by providing a new, happy and safe environment so that they can live and grow like any other children in the world.