Save the Children Australia is a prominent non-profit dedicated to improving the lives of children both in Australia and globally. Part of the international Save the Children network, it focuses on child protection, education, and health care, especially for Indigenous, refugee, and low-income families. Through programs, advocacy, and emergency response, it aims to ensure every child can thrive, regardless of their circumstances.
The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) is a vital Australian non-profit providing emergency and primary health care in rural, remote, and regional areas since 1928. With a fleet of medically equipped aircraft, the RFDS offers emergency evacuations, primary care, telehealth, and health education, ensuring high-quality medical access regardless of distance. It plays a crucial role in improving health outcomes for Australia's remote populations, making it an essential part of the nation's health care system.
Casa Esperanza, established in 1997 in Negros Oriental, Philippines, is a shelter aiding minor women and children facing incestuous abuse, offering them safety and support. Despite local government funding and donations, the facility struggles with insufficient resources, particularly in staff training for handling trauma. During our December 2023 visit, we identified an urgent need for enhanced training and resources. Awareness Services commits to improving Casa Esperanza's capacity through staff and client training sessions and counseling, supporting our mission to aid in the mental and emotional recovery of these individuals. Your donations are vital in helping us provide these essential services and make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected.
Casa Esperanza is a residential facility that provides temporary shelter to minor women in crisis situations throughout the Province of Negros Oriental in the Philippines. Founded in 1997, the facility currently serves an average of 30-50 clients at any given time.
Most of Casa Esperanza’s in-house clients are women and children who have experienced incestuous abuse and require temporary shelter for their safety. These young individuals endure physical, mental, and emotional abuse from their own families and relatives, placing them in extremely sensitive situations.
Supported by the local government of Dumaguete City, Philippines, Casa Esperanza receives operational funding to cover staff salaries, food, and other expenses. However, this financial support is insufficient for the facility to reach its full potential in providing quality care and appropriate support for its clients. Additionally, Casa Esperanza relies on donations from private organizations and individuals, including food, money, clothing, and even training and activities for its clients.
During our visit to the facility in December 2023, we had the opportunity to speak with the facility manager and assess the shelter. One of the glaring shortcomings we observed was the lack of training and resources for staff to effectively handle clients undergoing such traumatic experiences. Training and seminars on supporting and managing sensitive clients have not been prioritized at Casa Esperanza. We believe it is crucial to address this area of support, not only for the staff but also for the abused individuals in the shelter.
Awareness Services is dedicated to enhancing the holistic well-being of our clients, aligning with our mission and vision to provide mental and emotional support to these young individuals. Every booked appointment with our service contributes to providing proper mental and emotional support to those in need at Casa Esperanza. We plan to offer training and seminars for staff and clients at the facility, along with counseling for the young individuals.
Every dollar contributed will make a significant difference in the lives of these vulnerable, helpless children who find themselves in cruel circumstances beyond their control. Your generosity helps build a more compassionate community and offers these children the support they desperately need to heal and thrive.
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