Caring for Children
CHILD RESCUE INTERNATIONAL… EVERY CHILD DESERVES A CHANCE
MWB’s CHILD RESCUE INTERNATIONAL programme was established in 1990 in response to requests from our contact network in Eastern Europe, who reported on the appalling conditions in institutions. While children’s homes are not administered by MWB, resources are supplemented with material, emotional and spiritual assistance. Over the past few years, much has been done on both practical and emotional levels to improve the lives of institutionalised children. In addition to providing clothing and shoes, nutritional supplements, toys, food parcels and hygiene products, heating systems have been upgraded and kitchens renovated.
Every sponsor is paired with an individual child and sponsors, who provide monthly financial assistance, are encouraged to communicate by letter and photographs with the children they are supporting. Every effort is made to enhance each child’s personal dignity self-confidence and sense of belonging, and to offer them real hope for the future. All children are offered Christian input and Bibles, and for those interested, a three year Bible Correspondence Course. Children living at home with their own families in conditions of dire poverty are also supported by MWB. Sponsors are also able to visit their sponsored child should they so desire.
SCHOLARSHIPS … To enable children on the brink of leaving institutions to transition smoothly into an independent life . Here we provide purpose-driven, motivated youngsters with the financial means to reach their educational goals.
CHILD CARE PROGRAMMES… EVEN LOVE ISN’T ALWAYS ENOUGH
MWB’s integrated MOTHERCARE PROJECTS are active in Albania and Ukraine. Shortages of drugs, medicines and equipment in hospitals mean that women are expected to provide many items for themselves when being admitted for child birth. For most, this is financially impossible. MWB distributes parcels containing nutritional supplements, baby-care products, baby food and clothing, and hygiene products, which are gratefully welcomed. Literature and advice on family planning, nappy changing, breast feeding, bathing and general care are also available to mothers, and mothers-to-be.
CHILD RECOVERY HOMES … MEETING THE CHALLENGES OF THE FUTURE
Abandonment, loneliness, lack of affection, low self-esteem are emotional problems that many children in Eastern Europe face. They lack families and friends, so a holiday, a celebration or a gift is something they don’t usually experience. Although school administration and staff try to meet children’s needs, they cannot offer individual attention and love as provided for by families. MWB’s objectives are sufficient warm clothing and boots for each child – essentials for the long, icy northern winters – as well as the basics of sheets, blankets, food, medicines and hygiene products. Steady improvements to physical environment – such as upgrading of heating systems, kitchen and ablutions – help instill a sense of belonging and enhance the children’s quality of life. Attention is also given to the emotional environment: counseling provides communication and problem-solving opportunities, while vocational and spiritual guidance is also available.
Donors are encouraged to support the Child Recovery Home project on a monthly basis, which enables these youngsters to enjoy opportunities for healthy growth and development and, in time, to make a real contribution to their country’s future.
