Good day, dear deputies and guests.

My name if Kristina, I'm 14 years old. For last ten months I live in Father's House center. I used to live on the street for two and a half years. I had to spend nights in the basements, shelters, and sometimes on the open air.

After life in the family when my mom and dad drank alcohol all the time, living on the street seemed to be better but very soon it turned to hell for me.

I sniffed glue, smoked cigarettes and drank alcohol, damaging my health. I should beg for food and money to survive. Many of my friends became thieves, some even turned to prostitution. People around us treated us differently: some with compassion, some with hatred and contempt, other tried not to notice us at all. People would say that we are dregs of the society, disturbing other people, and that we have no future but in prison.

Unfortunately two of my friends are in prison now indeed, another friends of my, who is only 16 now, gave birth to a child and abandoned him. I was taken to the state shelter twenty times but each time I ran away.

I don't know what would happen to me if I Father's House workers didn't find me. They showed me love I dreamed about for all my life. Now I'm happy, study at school, go to church, and have many wonderful friends. A lot of opportunities are open before me but my biggest dream is to have a family and loving mama and papa.

I'd like you to take my word as from one who represents those children which still live on the street and dream about happy childhood. We are normal kids as any other children. I'm the same and the children in your families. I want to love and be loved. Turn to us not only your eyes but your hearts too. Treat us as your own children and give us a little bit of your love. We have the future. We will grow up and you will be proud of us.

Do not forget about us!