This is our WHY

Tens of thousands of Talibé children across Senegal and neighboring West African countries are homeless, neglected, abused, and exploited by some Quranic school teachers, known as marabouts. Many impoverished families send their children to traditional religious schools (daaras) with the hope that they will receive spiritual instruction, education, and proper care. “Talibé” comes from the Arabic word for “disciple,” symbolizing discipline and religious devotion.

However, in far too many cases, that trust is tragically violated. Instead of protection and opportunity, countless Talibé are forced into daily street begging for food and money, profits that benefit the marabout rather than the children. Behind the walls of these unregulated daaras, children experience conditions of profound neglect, physical abuse, psychological trauma, and exploitation. Many Talibé ultimately choose to live on the streets, facing hunger, violence, and vulnerability, because returning to the daara feels even more dangerous.

These children carry invisible wounds from trauma most of the world never sees. They desperately need safety, healing, and connection. Caregivers, ministries, and community leaders are seeking trauma-informed training and compassionate resources to ensure Talibé children not only survive, but finally have a chance to flourish.

More about the Talibe:

Mason de la Gare: https://en.mdgsl.com/  (Our partnering org)

Lens Culture: https://www.lensculture.com/articles/mario-cruz-talibes-modern-day-child-slavery

Human Rights Watch: https://www.hrw.org/report/2019/12/16/these-children-dont-belong-streets/roadmap-ending-exploitation-abuse-talibes

In partnership with multiple international human rights organizations including Maison de la Gare and Love 1 Talibe, we aim to provide on-going support through education and essential resources as needed. We walk with local leaders and changemakers to create a different place. A place where generational trauma halts. A place where women and children find safety, connection, and hope. A place for flourishing: a trauma-informed care farm.