Seth Barnes May 6, 2012 8:00 PM

Buying a child's freedom

Sharjeel's parents had a hard life. They were brick makers in Pakistan and indebted to their employer. To make ends meet, they had Sharjeel work al...

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Sharjeel's parents had a hard life. They were brick makers in Pakistan and indebted to their employer.

To make ends meet, they had Sharjeel work alongside them.

Then a terrible tragedy struck. Sharjeel's parents were in an auto accident and died.

At seven years old, Sharjeel found himself saddled with his parent's $1500 debt to their employer.

Not only was he orphaned, but every day he had to work in the hot sun making bricks. He was left without hope.

But the story has a happy ending. Emmanuel Sadiq learned of Sharjeel's situation and let us know about it. And that's where Tara Tankersley comes in. She is one of many unsung heroes we have at Adventures. She may look like an ordinary professional to some people, having worked in our accounting department for years. But when she learned of Sharjeel's situation, she decided to make a difference. She knew that we trust Emmanuel, having seen the difference that he has helped make in hundreds of lives.

After confirming the details, she sent Emmanuel the money to buy Sharjeel's freedom. And for an additional $250, she covered his school clothes, shoes, school enrollment free and a food package. Today Sharjeel is living with his aunt. No longer is he a slave. 

 

 

 

                              Emmanuel buying Sharjeel's freedom

Emmanuel tells us that there are other children in a situation like Sharjeel's, sold into slavery. If you'd like to help buy a child's freedom, please contact me and I'll put you in touch with Tara.

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