Providing hope to young men in need

Established 18 years ago, the organisation’s main objectives are the education and rehabilitation of each boy, providing them with a sense of purpose in life and a feeling of dignity.

There are 14 young residents at the home in the ten - 17 year age group.

With an end goal of fostering productive, law-abiding citizens, all the residents are mandated to attend school at the various levels. Thus, laying the groundwork for gainful employment and preparing them to take their rightful place in society.

The Massy Foundation provides annual financial support to the home. The funds are used to assist the residents with their educational needs and assist in numerous extracurricular activities.

Rainbow Rescue’s CEO Judy Wilson said in a media release: “It is vital for our boys to maintain a well-balanced, stable and structured lifestyle. The programmes we have in place include private tutors and volunteers who assist with homework supervision, spiritual upliftment, recreational and sporting activities, first aid training and in-house counselling sessions with our social workers.

“These programmes have made a vast improvement in the boys’ lives, aiding them in graduating with five or more O’Level passes.

This has allowed a number of them to continue their studies at the University of the West Indies. We have had past residents who went on to obtain jobs in both the Trinidad and Tobago Regiment and the Coast Guard. One has gone on to work in the construction industry, while others have become electricians, security guards, library clerks and in one case, a veterinary assistant.” Gaston Aguilera, chairman of the Massy Foundation praised the home. “We wish to congratulate the management and staff of Rainbow Rescue for the excellent work they have diligently undertaken over the past 18 years. The foundation admires the holistic direction the organisation has taken in ensuring that these young men receive a fresh start in life. We are therefore happy to play a decisive part to the development of the residents at the home.” Wilson praised the foundation for its ongoing contributions which allow Rainbow Rescue to continue its labour of love.

She also indicated that there are various projects that arise on an ad-hoc basis, including the renovation of the home’s study area.

Donations from corporate and individual sponsors, as well as mentors and volunteers willing to assist the young men are greatly needed and highly appreciated, the release said.