Auntie Betty: Dad doesn’t take care of me
Dear Auntie Betty, I am 15 years old. My problem is that my dad does not take care of me.
Meanwhile, I have lost my mom and I need certain basic things in life and for school.
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However, I have had to rely on guys to give me money to make ends meet. I know this is not right but I have no choice.
I sometimes get remittance from my aunt who lives abroad, but I cannot always rely on that because sometimes it takes a long time before I receive money from her.
What should I do?
Worried Girl.
Dear Worried Girl, It is certainly not right to be taking money from guys, no matter the circumstances. You have to put a stop to it now.
There are many consequences for doing that — the guys may take advantage of you and also not respect you. It is dangerous and unhealthy for you to do that and I am happy you yourself know it is not right.
I do not know why your dad is not living up to his responsibilities, but no matter what he is facing, he has to make sure he finds a way to provide your needs.
I suggest you have a chat with him, or if you cannot do that, talk to an elderly person or relative to talk to him about how his failure to provide your basic needs is affecting you.
Do you have relatives who you think can help take care of you? Maybe you could discuss with your dad to talk to those relatives to assist. What about the place you worship?
Some religious groups make provision to take care of young people in need, so look into that as well.
But you have to discuss all these with your dad; it is important that you let him know what efforts you are also making.
It is also important that you spend wisely the money you get from your aunt. I do not know how much she sends to you, but do try and save some of the money for rainy days.
You could also think of something that you could do to earn some money. However, this has to be something that will not affect your studies because you need to concentrate on your education to enable you to have a bright future.
I wish you the very best.
