Love abounds, but resources are scarce

West Haven Children's Home seeks financial assistance to stay afloat

Mark Titus, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:West Haven Children's Home in Copse, Hanover, is in dire need of financial assistance to maintain its programmes for the 82 special-needs youngsters housed at the facility.

With a monthly subvention of $1.6 million from the State, and a monthly budget of more than $2.5 million, the Gloria Veira-led facility has been depending on the kindness of organisations and individuals to make up the deficit.

"We get help, but it's not easy. It does cost a lot (to fund the day-to-day operation of the facility)," said Veira, the founder.

She lauded the support of the Indian community, charity group United Way of Jamaica, and a number of individuals, including Montego Bay businessman Tony Hart.

MAMMOTH TASK

"It's a mammoth task, and some of these people have been supporting us from inception, so we are grateful."

The salaries stand at $1.5 million monthly for the 54-member staff. Other expenses include, among other things, a $300,000 grocery bill, an electricity bill which averages $130,000 monthly, and a $130,000 diaper bill. Sadly, it is like an obstacle course to get to the children's home as the road has been in a deplorable condition for several years, and this has dampened the spirits of some potential donors.

Attempts to contact Member of Parliament for Eastern Hanover Dr D.K. Duncan to get word on possible road work for the area were unsuccessful.

The home has now embarked on efforts to acquire a solar system to reduce the exorbitant cost of electricity. A donation of US$6,500 has fallen short of the amount needed to purchase a standby generator.

"This is very important equipment, especially in case of an emergency. Just imagine what it would be like for 82 individuals with disabilities during a disaster in the dark," Veira said.

She admits that the facility has been relying on sponsorship from abroad to carry some of the programmes that have been affected by lack of funding, including employing specialised teachers.

"Through the help of the fund-raising efforts of a supporter overseas, we are now able to teach them," she explained. "Prior to the start of the school year, we have been only able to offer care and protection because there was no money to employ specialised teachers as is required in such a facility; but we are grateful because no man is an island, no man stands alone."