LAMALMA 

 

The social inclusion of our at risk children and young people goes way beyond a plate of food, basic hygiene or quality schooling. Exercising full citizenship involves fully valuing the human condition which, in the case of these children, includes the right to having fun, entertainment and exploring all their potential intellect, creativity and social interaction. 

 

WHAT IS IT? WHAT IS THE AIM?

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LAMALMA is a Christian missionary initiative which shares the holistic gospel. The disadvantaged child, is targeted with love and affection, in an environment of acceptance and warmth, valued  and given the opportunity to simply be a child. The distance from the urban atmosphere and its disturbances, misery, violence and the unrest found in the slums and poor communities, coupled with a programme of adventure and leisure have the power to have a unique, long-lasting and indelible impact in the hearts of these little ones. 

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The Lamalma project aims to make a meaningful contribution to improving the quality of life, inclusion and self-esteem of at risk children and teenagers by working in partnership with social projects that already serve these young people. The aim is to provide these disadvantaged children with times of leisure and adventure through weekend camps, contributing to their formation as young citizens and developing their self-esteem whilst passing on Christian values and principles.

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The key word which will make this project work is 'partnership'. This is how the dream of the first camps were made possible.

 

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PERSONAL CONSIDERATIONS

The idea of a project like this is in line with what I believe to be the essence of what Jesus sent us to do. In other words, we will act as agents of transformation of lives so that they can be rescued by the love of God. The idea of giving needy children the opportunity to experience leisure and adventure in a warm and inviting environment makes my heart beat loudly because seeing these children enjoy the same things that I desire my own children to have is, in my understanding, the closest thing to the Christian command to love your neighbour as you love yourself.

 

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Romeu de Almeida