A Month of Achievements, New Beginnings and a Safe Place to Stay
No two months are the same at Madamfo Children’s Shelter. Sometimes there is plenty to celebrate, while at other times children suddenly need protection and a safe place to stay. July brought both and once again showed how many different stories are part of everyday life at the Shelter.
Every Child Had a Reason to Be Proud
On 23 July, the children finally started their well-deserved school holidays after a busy academic term. Before that, however, there were examinations and the schools’ end-of-term award ceremonies.
And there was something very special to celebrate: every single one of our children received at least one award or recognition.
The awards recognised not only academic achievement, but also good behaviour, discipline and the children’s commitment throughout the term. It was a very proud moment for the children and, of course, for everyone at the Shelter.
Although school is closed for the holidays, learning has not stopped completely. Home tuition continues at the Shelter, giving the children the opportunity to revise what they have learned, work on areas where they need additional support and prepare for the new school term.
Birthdays, Football and a Little More Responsibility
Of course, the holidays are also a time for fun. In July, we celebrated the children whose birthdays fell during the month. Games, music, food and lots of laughter made it a special day for everyone.
Celebrations like these mean much more to the children than simply having a party. They give each child the feeling of being seen and appreciated and help strengthen the sense of community and belonging at the Shelter.
The children’s favourite weekend football matches also continued. At the same time, the school holidays mean taking on a little more responsibility in everyday life. Cleaning their rooms, washing dishes, tidying the surroundings and helping to keep the compound clean are all part of the children’s daily routine.
With the guidance of their caregivers, these everyday tasks help them develop independence, responsibility and teamwork, important lessons that go far beyond the classroom.
Two Children Find Temporary Safety
But July also had another side. Two more children were placed in the care of the Shelter after they were found in need of protection.
One of the boys had been found stranded and was taken to the police. He said that he came from Togo and had been travelling to Accra to join relatives. Following a referral by the police, the Department of Social Welfare arranged for him to stay at the Shelter. The relevant authorities are now working to trace his family, assess his circumstances and determine the best long-term solution for him.
Later in the month, another lost child was rescued and brought to the Shelter for temporary care. In his case, too, efforts are underway to identify and trace his family.
For now, both boys have what they need most: a safe place to stay, people who care for them and time while the next steps are being worked out.
With these two new admissions, 22 children were living at Madamfo Children’s Shelter at the end of July.
Sometimes It’s the Small Things That Matter Most
July once again reminded us that making a difference is not always about big projects or dramatic changes. Sometimes it is a child proudly bringing home an award. A birthday celebrated together. A football match at the weekend. Or a safe bed for a child who suddenly has nowhere else to go.
All of this is possible because people like you continue to support our work and the children at Madamfo Children’s Shelter.
Every donation helps us provide the children with safety, care, education and a sense of normality. Thank you to everyone who stands by our side and helps us give children not only a safe place to stay, but also hope and the chance of a better future.
