August, 22

“I’m 50 years old and this is my everyday job. For the past ten years, I have been making a living by collecting materials such as plastic, iron, and cables. I have three children, and one of them is kidney disease. I have to work to raise them. That’s why I get up at 05:30 in the morning and go on the road on my motorcycle. I go from village to village. Sometimes I return home at 10:00 p.m. I take down the things I have collected from the motorcycle and bring them home. Then I sell them to second-hand traders. The money that I earn is between 70 and 80 lira per day. Some days I return home empty-handed. It does not support us enough. When I pay electricity, water, and food bills, I don’t have anything left, but thanks to the neighbors, we make a living. Benevolent people often help us as I can’t make a living with this job alone. During the holidays, my children want new clothes and shoes; unfortunately, I can’t buy anything because I can’t afford them. Living conditions are harsh”.