Published: Monday | November 16, 2009
In keeping with the Christmas spirit of generosity, Howard Hamilton, chairman of the Adoption Board, is inviting members of the public to take home a ward of the state for the Yuletide season.
Hamilton, who started the programme in the 1990s, said he could not let the opportunity pass to impact positively on the lives of these children. "I saw the need and I know that the children do have things going on for them but they are deprived of a home environment," he said.
He told The Gleaner that the programme has provided a source of hope for the children who are able to have fun and excitement in their lives at a time when many people worldwide are celebrating.
No age restriction
For those who wish to share their home with the less fortunate, Hamilton is encouraging them to take home a child who is under 10 years old, but said there is no age restriction. These children can be kept from Christmas Eve to Boxing Day, but arrangements can be made to keep them beyond that.
However, these steps should be taken early, as the children's officers from the Child Development Agency (CDA) have to examine the premises where they are going to give approval. Rashida St Juste, public relations manager at the CDA, said the first step is to stop at a CDA parish office or a regional office where the 'parents' will be taken through the steps.
While the programme has had its successes, Hamilton revealed that it was not without its critics.
"Some people believe that you shouldn't expose them to it because you have to take them away, but I don't agree with that," he asserted. "It is better to have tasted than not to have tasted at all."
Many benefits
Hamilton has seen many benefits from the programme and the children look forward to it. As such, he says the 'parents' can find creative means of bonding with them instead of only keeping them each December.
"What you should try to do is maintain a contact with them through the year, try to keep in contact with them so if you're going on a little outing, you can pick them up and take them, and then try and get to know their birthdays," he said.
To get a listing of the parish office nearest you, call the CDA at 948-2841-2.