The Problem
There are an estimated 600,000 working street children in Afghanistan, between the ages of five and sixteen years old (1). The work and scavenging they do is often the only means of income for their families. Many have lost members of their family due to the many years of conflict in their country, or have family members who are unable to work due to age or disability. They often do not have access to sufficient nutrition or proper clothing to work outside during the cold winter months.
During the winter months these children face the threat of cold and severe weather. Street children continue to work during these months in order to provide for their families, but they are under constant threat of illness and frost-bite. On top of the physical challenges, being cold inhibits their ability to be productive.