SOS Children’s Village Country Director doles out N285m to caregivers
Jos= Nigeria
Country Director of the SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria, Mr. Mr Eghosa Erhumwunse. has donated N285 million to 14 women groups taking care of children and other vulnerable groups in Plateau state.
The money was given to Child Rights (CRPN) Protection Network and 13 groups of artisanal women grouped under the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA). The groups graduated in various skills while taking care of the children.
While the CRPN got N25 million to support its humanitarian activities, each of 13 VSLAs got N20 million each to support in setting up their members.
Speaking while presenting the cheques to the representatives of the recipients at the SOS Children’s Village, Zawan on Monday, Erhumwunse, said that he was making the donation in recognition of and to celebrate the dedication and accountability of those involved in caring for children.
He highlighted the positive outcomes for households, mentioning support for 1,450 children and the overall improvement in community welfare.
According to him, the caregivers were gouped into structure, with hair styling group, for example, consisting of 15 to 35 members, indicating a broad network of support.
He said that in 2022, seven groups graduated, and a significant financial grant of $17.5 million was announced and expressed happiness about the growth of these groups and their impact.
He said, “The money is financial grants for sustainability. Each of the 13 VSLA (Village Savings and Loan Association) groups is granted 20 million Naira, totaling 260 million Naira. The funds are intended for business support and should be used wisely to ensure sustainability.
He acknowledged the economic challenges faced by families, which affect their ability to support their children and maintain their businesses, adding that the grant is too support them for self sufficiency, urging members to work hard and save to enhance their economic stability.
Commissioner for Women Affairs, Caroline Dafur, expressed deep gratitude towards SOS Children’s Villages for their financial support.and pledged that the money will be wisely invested
Speaking on behalf of the recipients, the State Coordinator, Child Rights Protection Network, Mrs. Sandra Chikan, said that the ol25 million Naira from SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria, is crucial for their operations in Plateau State.
She said that there is a pressing issue of child trafficking, baby factories, and child violations in Plateau State, necessitating the need for this funding.
According to her, the grant will support initiatives in five local government areas: Bassa, Mangu, Joss South, Joss North, and Riyom, which have seen an increase in child abuse cases.
She said, “The funding will enhance case management capabilities and provide training for members of the Child Protection Network, which consists of various organizations and ministries.”
Chikan emphasized the importance of collaboration among different organizations and ministries in child protection efforts and appeals for additional support from other partners.
