House of Abandoned Children

Photos taken by Tom Robinson, a 30-year-old English photographer who has traveled extensively through South East Asia as well as South & Central America. He worked for a year at a special needs school, which was an eye opener and he thinks back to it more now that he is a father. He especially remembers a girl who was quadriplegic and would blink once for yes and twice for no, yet they could still talk for long periods about all sorts of things. Her strength and determination through adversity is an inspiration to us all.

About these photos: “Located on the outskirts of Guatemala City, Hogar Miguel Magone provides shelter for over 80 children aged between three and sixteen years old. The majority of children sent to the Hogar are victims of abuse or neglect. Other children end up at the Hogar after being kidnapped from their families – a growing trend in Guatemala. Hogar means home in Spanish.

The children are fed, watered and cared for by local teachers, volunteers and service personnel and attend a local school, which they walk to every day. The food is basic, but keeps them healthy and usually comprises of re-fried beans, rice and as many vegetables the cook can fit in without the children noticing. Bread is also handed out, which is cooked daily by the children in the Hogar’s bakery.

I often wanted to know more about how each child ended up at the Hogar, but never asked. As an outsider I was immediately accepted by the children who wanted me to constantly play games with them, help with their homework and at times just wanted a hug. My time at the Hogar taught me how incredible young children are at adapting to their situation, however hard and difficult that may be. If you are interested in volunteering at the Hogar or making a donation, you can contact them through their website www.hogarmiguelmagone.com.”

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