Funding wanted for home

Accommodation at the El Shaddai Restoration Home for Children in Gasparillo has been literally bursting at its seams, with a population of 17 children who currently live in just four rooms. Located at Restore Road, Bonne Aventure, Gasparillo, the home’s management recently started construction of additional quarters to provide more accommodation for the teenage boys and girls. Yesterday, Elvira Khan, president of El Shaddai’s board of directors, told Newsday that the board was financially strapped for funds — needing $400,000 to complete the boys’ dormitory. Khan bemoaned the fact that the home receives no financial assistance from government.

“Applications,” Khan said, “went in to government with financial statements and they never responded.”

It was Khan and her sister, Norma Francis, who nine years ago, started the home. Two other persons volunteer their time and effort to assist the children with their homework and chores. Caring for 17 teenage boys and girls, Khan said, is no bed of roses. Their needs are different and are increasing, she said. From its own funds, she said, the home pays its telephone and electrity bills.

The children are fed well, Khan said, despite the lack of funds. For this, the home is grateful to members of the public in Gasparillo through their kind donations. “People sometimes feed the children. There are a lot of food donations and even if there is not enough food, I will go out and buy,” Khan said. But Khan said that she has been worried sick over the cramped conditions of the 17 children. Funiture is lacking, she added, and the home is in need of another house parent and a secretary.

Khan made a plea, “We need to get doors and windows for the extension. The electrical installation needs to be re-done. And of course we need to furnish the dormitory.”

On November 11, the home will host its fourth annual fund-raiser. Interested persons can contact: 658-4441, 650-3571 and 650-5518.