An Inside Look: Children’s Emergency Hostel

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – April is National Child Protection Month, and in this series dedicated to its observance, we get an inside look at what it takes to operate local children’s homes.

In this installment, our Megan Shepherd visits the Children’s Emergency Hostel – where administrators say they continue to face financial shortfalls as more and more children transition in and out of their care.

It has been a haven for children considered wards of the state since 1962. The Bahamas Children’s Emergency Hostel caters to the needs of displaced or disenfranchised children from birth to age 11 but, who is considered a ward of the state?

Business Manager, Charlene Gibson, explains the many reasons for a child to become a ward of the state, including abuse, neglect and loss of a parent.

As the transition can often be scary or traumatizing for the children, Gibson notes that there are psychologists and psychiatrists at the Department of Social Services to assist.

Forty-two members of staff are responsible for the 24-hour care of the children. Also, Gibson says the day usually begins at 5 AM with prayers and devotion.