At Dompet Dhuafa USA, we believe that every child, no matter their circumstances deserve to feel seen, celebrated, and loved. This belief came to life on July 26, 2025, when, thanks to the generosity of our donors we brought smiles, learning, and adventure to 30 orphaned children in Salatiga, Central Java, Indonesia. 

In the sacred month of Muharram, when Muslims around the world are encouraged to show extra care for orphans and the vulnerable, we partnered with Dompet Dhuafa Central Java to host a day-long Edutrip; a program that was so much more than a field trip. It was a message to these children: “You matter. You are not forgotten.” 

Honoring Heritage, One Batik at a Time 

The day started with a visit to Batik Benang Raja, where children were introduced to the intricate and meaningful art of traditional batik. Rather than just observing, they became artists themselves; drawing patterns, applying wax, and dyeing fabrics under the guidance of local artisans. 

To make the experience even more personal, each child received a voucher worth IDR 200,000 to choose a batik item of their own. Seeing their pride and excitement reminded us why we do this work. One child told a volunteer, 

“I never thought I could make something like this.” 

It wasn’t just an art project, it was a moment of connection, pride, and joy. A chance to feel capable and creative. 

Letting Kids Be Kids 

After the batik session, the children headed to River Tubing Muncul, a lush and scenic natural attraction. For many, it was their first time seeing clear springs, feeling the river’s flow, or experiencing the thrill of outdoor adventure. 

Under careful supervision and full safety measures, the children floated down the river, laughing and bonding with their peers and mentors. This wasn’t just recreation, it was healing, confidence-building, and a beautiful reminder of what it means to be a child again. 

As Yusuf Amukti, the program coordinator in Dompet Dhuafa Central Java, shared: 

“This Edutrip is about more than fun, it’s about restoring hope, giving children something joyful to hold onto, and showing them, they are not alone.” 

A Shared Mission of Compassion 

This Edutrip is one of several programs Dompet Dhuafa is conducting throughout Muharram in Salatiga, Solo, and Purwokerto, all with the goal of honoring the orphans in our care, as taught by the Prophet Muhammad PBUH. 

“The Prophet instructed us to care for orphans with love and dignity,” said Zaini Tafrikhan, Dompet Dhuafa Central Java representative. “Thanks to support from donors in the U.S., we were able to do just that. These children may not know your names, but they feel your love.” 

Why This Matters 

To many of these children, a single day outside the orphanage is a rare gift. Your donation didn’t just sponsor a program, it created memories, sparked joy, and reminded a child that someone across the world cares. 

At Dompet Dhuafa USA, we don’t just provide food, shelter, or education, we bring moments of dignity, hope, and belonging. And we couldn’t do it without you. 

Thank you for being part of this mission. Let’s keep going together.