You might be led to believe that I do nothing but look at the animals in my house and quilt. That is not the case. I am also very involved with The Second Home Foundation. The foundation has founded a living accommodation for children with special needs in The Gambia in 2008. The living accommodation takes in the children during the week, in order for them to be able to go to school. The weekends are spent with their families. This way they get the best of both worlds. During the pick-up and drop-off time is taken to inform the families about the child's progress and to educate them in dealing with the disability of their child. Most families have already seen a significant change in their children.
While we were doing that, we found out that actually nothing is known about mental disabilities at all in The Gambia at all. Resulting in poor living conditions, abandonment and even death. Luckily people are waking up to the fact that these children are in fact precious. We are working with partners in The Gambia to increase knowledge, we send volunteers and interns to do the same. Most of all we are showing people what these kids need and how much better they feel when they get it.
I will be showcasing the children one by one on this blog. Can't wait? Check the site
Second Home or simply leave a message on this blog to ask for information.
This is Buba. He is 12. He is one of my favourites due to his sweet nature. |
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Buba also suffers from epilepsy. He and his brother and sisters live with his grandmother in Tangi. His mother has died and his father is nowhere to be found. During the week Buba now lives at the Second Home lodge in Kololi. He enjoys music and loves to look through catalogues. Since Buba is staying at the lodge, his behaviour has improved immensely. He is happier too.
More tomorrow!
Heleen
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