The SOS Children Village has highlighted the need to attach urgent actions to strengthen families as children remain vulnerable and exposed to abuses, ranging from domestic to sexual, emotional, and psychological abuses.
May 15 of each year is set aside globally as International Families Day, and special statements were made which highlighted SOS Children’s Village’s 75 Years impact report.
In a special statement delivered on the 30th anniversary of International Families Day, on May 20, 2024 at the SOS Compound in New Matadi, the National Director, Prosper Mamadou Ndione, said, in the face of numerous ongoing challenges impacting family stability, SOS children’s Villages Liberia is urging the government and other partners to immediately engender robust actions to fortify the foundation of the society, mainly the family unit.
“The well-being, protection and development of children hinge on the strength and resilience of their families,” Director Ndione added.
According to Ndione, International Day of Families is not just a symbolic observance, but it is a call to action.
“We cannot afford to overlook the critical role of families in shaping the future; it is imperative that we prioritize investments in strong social and child protection systems to ensure that families receive the necessary support and resources,” SOS National Director noted.
In order to tackle most of those challenges confronting families, SOS National Director recommended comprehensive family support program and other programs to offer holistic support to families, addressing their economic, social, and emotional needs.
He also proffered the prevention of family separation, which aims at strengthening initiatives that prevent unnecessary separation of children from their families and promote family reunification where feasible.
Other proposals included Accessible Social Services to ensure families have access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and psychological support, as well as empowerment and education, which are necessary to empowering parents and caregivers with knowledge and skills to provide a nurturing stimulating environment for their children.
“SOS Children’s Villages Liberia is committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to champion the cause of family strengthening,” the National Director maintained, adding, “Together, we can create a future where every child grows up in a loving and supportive family, equipped to thrive and contribute to society.”
Meanwhile, separate presentations were done by Nehmah Yeanay, Program Development Manager, highlighting the importance of families being together under one roof.
SOS is currently being operated in two counties, namely, Montserrado and Grand Bassa.
