Children from Ekklisia happy with new home

Stichting Mama Joyce has put up a children’s home at Tamanredjo in the Commewijne District. The project was carried out in association with the Ja Foundation from The Netherlands. The consecration of Ekklisia Children’s Home where seven special kids are staying took place recently. Joyce Frijde, director at the children’s home, pointed out that she and the children are very happy with the fact that they can stay in a pleasant environment.

Frijde pointed out that the children’s home was previously located along the Julianastraat in Paramaribo. But the Ministry of Social Affairs and Housing (Sozavo) disapproved of the building where 16 children were living in 2013. The director and business partners then went looking for donations. The Ja Foundation which is located in The Netherlands indicated that it wanted to lend a helping hand after its representatives had visited the old building. “We are happy that we were taken from that situation.” The new children’s home has been renovated and reconstructed and currently consists of 4 bedrooms, a kitchen, 2 big walk-in closets, a bathroom and a toilet, a living-room and a terrace in the front and the back of the house. The children’s home proves shelter to orphans and children who have been disowned by divorced parents. Frijde pointed out that the children’s home must make ends meet without government aid. It manages to stay afloat with money from the old age pension of the director, donations and support from the neighbors. The children’s home currently needs beds. The director hopes that the government will also do its part by giving subsidy or food parcels.