Help for Christ Child children’s home

The children are required to undergo a psycho-educational assessment which is done by a private entity and can be quite costly. This assessment is used to analyse the mental processes underlying each child’s educational performance.

The balance of the contribution is channelled into attendance at a private special education school for two of the children, as well as medical assistance and facilities maintenance as needed.

Manager of the home Sr Annunciata de Souza in expressing her gratitude for the support said in a media release: “We are ever so grateful for the contribution that Massy Foundation has given and continues to give. Because of this we are able not only to afford supplemental education for our children but to meet other needs within our institution as well. May God continue to bless the work that they do.” Gregory Sloane- Seale, Massy Foundation director said: “The Foundation recognises the immense financial strain that is often put upon establishments such as this one. It is our hope that with our continued annual support, the Christ Child Convalescent Home will be in a better position to meet the needs of these children who require special care and protection.” The home was established in 1946, when its original function was to provide care for children recuperating from surgeries associated with rheumatic fever and heart conditions.

At that time, the young patients were sent to the home due to the lack of beds at the hospital.

Over the years, there was a shift in the services provided, with the Carmelite Sisters who managed the home changing their focus to the critical need of providing a “home” for at-risk children. It was then that the Christ Child Convalescent Home took on the daunting challenge of providing a safe and loving environment for these children to thrive.

Residents’ ages range from two to ten years and they receive round-the-clock care and supervision by dedicated staff.

The home, located in Diego Martin, caters to 33 children who have been abandoned, abused or sent there through the court system and the Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago.

Since the home relies on the generosity of organisations and concerned citizens to assist in meeting their financial needs, donations and volunteerism are always appreciated.

Christ Child ensures that all of the funds received are spent specifically on the children, the release stated.