Beyond laundry: Clean beds as a matter of dignity

In our second project, we successfully raised the necessary funds to build a covered laundry facility for the foundation. But why is this project so crucial for the well-being of the children in the home?

One reason - perhaps not immediately obvious - is that children who have experienced sexual violence often suffer from bedwetting. This usually subsides once they receive care and feel safe. However, since many of the children taken in by the foundation Ciudad de Dios Zoe have endured such trauma, washing their bedding is a significant daily challenge, as illustrated in the pictures below.

Currently, due to severely inadequate washing and drying facilities, only the children’s clothing can be washed at the children home. Bed linens and blankets must be cleaned privately by the foundation's director at her own home because there simply isn’t enough space to hang them out to try. During the rainy season, the situation becomes even more difficult.

For these children, having a clean bed and fresh clothes is not just a matter of hygiene - it’s a matter of dignity. The renovation of the laundry facility directly contributes to their sense of self-worth and supports their emotional recovery. Over time, as their confidence grows, the frequency of bedwetting decreases, reducing the need for constant laundry. The time saved can then be reinvested in better care and support for the children.

With a one-time donation of €4,700 through our initiative, we’ve set a positive cycle in motion - one that makes life easier for everyone involved and creates lasting improvements in the wellfare of these children.