Qais’s Story
Qais is 14 years old. His family lives in the first district of Kabul city. His father is addicted to drugs, and his mother separated from his father nine years ago. He lived with his mother, stepfather, a 10-year-old stepbrother, and a 2-year-old sister.
Qais’s stepfather earns a living by selling second-hand goods in Kabul. Quais himself was studying fifth grade at school. He has been away from his family for three months. One day, he and his brother took 7,000 Afghani from their mother's wallet and spent 1,000 Afghani daily in the bazaar and at school. After a few days, their father discovered the stolen money. He suspected the child and his brother and beat them. The next morning, he ran away from home to avoid further beatings. He gradually made his way to the city and eventually reached the Karte Naw area in the east of Kabul. When night fell, the policeman saw him and asked about the family. Qais told them that he lost his way and did not know the address. The policeman took him to PD8 station, and the next day he was brought to the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs. From there, he was referred to the Forgotten No More (FNM) center.
In the beginning, Qais exhibited feelings of isolation, mental instability, severe anxiety, and low self-confidence. He also displayed a lack of engagement in daily activities and a sense of hopelessness regarding the future. After a few counseling sessions focusing on building confidence and regular case meetings, he became able to express his problems and was prepared for further psychosocial counseling. Qais received various services at the Hagar’s Forgotten No More (FNM) support center, including assistance in addressing social issues, healthcare treatment, learning opportunities within and outside the center, legal awareness, psychosocial consultations, and participation in sports, recreational activities, and education programs. The center also provided training in computer skills, sewing, bead weaving, and ensured safe accommodation. All of these supports and services contributed to his increased confidence, improved behavior, and a positive outlook on the future.
Currently, Qais actively participates in all recreational and sports programs, considers Hagar's employees as his supporters, and feels safe. He now has a keen interest in education and holds hope for his future life.
The Hagar Afghanistan team was successful in establishing trust-based relationships with Qais and obtaining the family's address. Mediation sessions are presently underway, and once the team ensures that the child's situation is safe and healthy, he will be reintegrated into his family.
