When most of us envision Bali we see a picturesque landscape, laughing children playing in the sand, happy parents relaxing with a drink as the sun sets and immaculate resorts. While this is very much the face of Bali that is shared with the world, the reality of Bali life for most families and children is very far from this idealistic vision. Over fifty percent of the Balinese population is living in poverty, surviving on less than $2 a day. Many families live in unsafe and overpopulated housing in slums and some families are forced to abandon their children as they cannot afford to pay for food, clothing or education. Children as young as four are living, sleeping and begging on the streets, children are taken advantage of by the people who should be protecting them and abuse is rife. Many children and their parents are unable to read or write and feel that they have no way of escaping the poverty cycle. Akademi Kristus has been established to bring hope into the lives of Indonesian youth, families and communities. We do this by developing real relationships with individuals and through the delivering of programs that build confidence and empower and equip individuals to achieve their goals. [To read more about us… click here]