TIRANA In the heart of the capital, far from the lights and noise of everyday life, lies a painful story of extreme poverty. In a dilapidated building, amidst humidity, cracked walls, and the presence of rats that move freely, live 11 minor children, ranging in age from just 8 months to 9 years old.
Children who, instead of toys and the care they deserve, face a daily lack of food, heating and minimal living conditions. The 30-year-old mother of 8 children carries an even heavier burden on her shoulders.
After her brother's imprisonment, his daughter-in-law abandoned her three children, leaving this already overburdened family at the door.
The 30-year-old returns for the umpteenth time to the show "With an Open Heart", in the hope that her voice will be heard. She does not ask for luxury, but only minimal living conditions for her children, a safe roof over their heads, enough food, and the opportunity for them to grow up with dignity.
Her appeal is a cry for help, a prayer that these 11 children will not remain hostage to extreme poverty and the ruthless circumstances of life.
"My brother has been in prison for 6 months. Six months ago, you had some problems. I have also been raising my brother's children for 5 months. But I didn't let them know because I didn't want to expose them. My brother's daughter-in-law is called Kamela, but she and my brother are not married. She is about 25 years old. And she has been living with her brother for 5 years and their relationship has been very good. When my brother's daughter-in-law left, we were all asleep. I didn't understand at all and she seemed a little scared. As far as I know, Kamela has returned to her family. Kamela lives in Vlora with her aunt. I know her parents are abroad. I know that she told my mother that 'I don't want to stay with your son anymore because he made a mistake.' And then she left. But she left the children," the 30-year-old confessed.
Today, 11 children share the same fate, raised in conditions of extreme poverty, where every day is a challenge for survival.
Anyone who can help, this is the phone number to contact, 068 872 5650.
The head of the family works tirelessly, doing all kinds of manual labor, just to provide two simple meals a day for his children. But his efforts are not enough to meet the needs of such a large family.
