Orphanage Support in the Dominican Republic: Beyond Bethesda Homes
Santo Domingo
Children under 18 are under the responsibility of the government agency for children. This is the regulatory agency that licenses and regulates orphanages. One rule they have is that once a child reaches 18, they must leave the orphanage. Because of this, continuous orphanage support in the Dominican Republic is vital for those transitioning into adulthood.
What Happens to Them Next?
They need to grow up really fast. They need a place to stay and help to get them settled. They all have the goal of studying at a university or a vocational school. Some are interested in getting jobs. Some need help obtaining birth certificates or their government ID, which will allow them to attend the university or get a job.
What could we do? Well, Helping Hands Unlimited set up a plan to help these girls. We helped them set up apartments, including appliances and furniture. We provided utilities and food for them. And, we helped with education expenses. All the girls understood it was their responsibility to complete their education and support themselves.
Several of the apartments have become self-sufficient. The girls have graduated and found jobs. They are then able to pay rent and utilities. Some continue to study. In general, they have grown into adults and are able to take care of themselves.
Growing Spiritually
Through this process, we work on growing them spiritually through continued involvement in a church, Bible studies, and service opportunities at the Bethesda Home of Children or with one of the other Helping Hands Unlimited projects.
These Girls Need Your Help!
To maintain our mission of supporting orphanages in the Dominican Republic, we rely on the generosity of donors to bridge the gap between childhood and independence.
* Setup Cost: It costs about $2,500.00 USD to set up one apartment for four girls.
* Monthly Operations: It costs about $450.00 USD to cover rent, utilities, and food.
We need people to make one-time contributions and to pledge monthly support to keep them operating. We hope you will consider helping!