Tag: minors

What is DSWD Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC)?

The DSWD Centers and Institutions Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC) is a government facility that provides temporary care for children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. The RSCC also provides educational and therapeutic services to these children.

Also Read: How to Apply DSWD Travel Clearance for Minors

As a society, we must look out for the well-being of our children since they are our future. This includes safeguarding children from psychological harm such as bullying and isolation. We must foster a community where kids may safely report abuse and find help if they need it.

Therefore, the government has enacted laws and policies to guarantee that every child has a fair shot at reaching his or her full potential. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC), its centers and institutions offer temporary housing, food, medical attention, religious and psychological assistance, and educational opportunities to abused children. This article will provide a comprehensive analysis of the topic at hand.

What is DSWD Centers and Institutions Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC)?

Children aged 0 to 6 years old can receive social work services at any time of day or night at the Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC), which is a residential facility open around the clock. It offers protection and rehabilitation services to children who have been neglected, abandoned, abused, or exploited, as well as children who have special needs such as children who are at risk and children who need alternative family care. Temporary residential care facilities offer these assistance programs.

Additionally, it offers intervention and services in the field of social work that is suitable and responsive, and address the requirements of very young children who have been abused in terms of their growth and development, as well as their safety and security. RSCC works toward strengthening the expertise and efficacy of the center’s personnel and the service providers in the administration of cases by providing children with appropriate placement and various other forms of rehabilitation services.

Benefits Of DSWD Centers and Institutions Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC)

On August 1, 1989, with the help of its legal foundation, P.D. Article 136 of Law 603, often known as the Child and Youth Welfare Code, requires the creation of Regional Child Welfare Agencies. Here are the programs and services:

1. Social Services

Case management, casework, and counseling are offered to determine whether or not the kid should be placed (adopted) or can be reunited with his or her biological family.

2. Home Life Services

A child’s basic needs are met, and they are taught about self-care and healthy lifestyle choices.

3. Health Services

Care for infants, immunizations, and development monitoring, as well as provision of medical exams, prescriptions, dental work, and in-patient hospital services if required. Testing, examination, and therapy in the field of psychology are also available.

4. Dietetics Services

Monthly measuring of weight and mass deworming, as well as the provision of balanced food and a customized diet for sick and malnourished youngsters.

5. Educational Services

Services include Day Care, tutoring, and educational outings for kids.

6. Spiritual Enhancement

The celebration of Holy Masses and Baptisms regularly, as well as the teaching of catechism, the retelling of Bible stories, and the leading of other religious activities directed toward the spiritual development and character development of the participants.

7. Recreational & Cultural Activities

Supervised playtime, educational outings, viewing of appropriate TV shows, VHS, and DVDs, and commemoration of children’s birthdays and other milestones (Christmas & New Year).

8. Training

Subject to the laws and regulations of the agency, RSCC also functions as a training field for volunteers, nurses, social Work students, midwives, and other students or employees of relevant fields.

Qualifications

The RSCC works with infants and toddlers up to the age of six. This section contains the following groups:

Orphans and Dependent Children – Children who have no living relatives to care for them because their parents are temporarily unable to do so.
Children who have been left by their parents and taken in by private individuals or groups (such as a clinic, hospital, placement agency, or officially signed childcare provider) are known as “abandoned” or “neglected” children.
A “foundling” is a youngster who has been left on the street or in another public or private location. These kids are being beaten up regularly.
Children who have been physically abused may have been victimized by members of their own family, neighbors, guardians, or others in their community.
Children who have been subjected to sexual abuse include those who have been lured, induced, employed, or pressured into engaging in sexual activity. This includes acts such as prostitution, molestation, and incest.
Youth who are voluntarily committed or surrendered are those whose families have decided to do so for personal or financial reasons, such as the young person having a kid outside of marriage, not having enough money to provide for the child, or the young person being the victim of rape.
Babies and young children born in the Philippines to foreign parents are known as transnational.
Orphaned children are those who have no living parents or other relatives to provide for them.

Requirements

Invitation Letter/Referral Letter
Report on a Social Case Study
Certified Copy of Birth Record
Abandoned Children’s Declaration of Abandonment
Statement of Commitment Regarding the Surrender of a Child
Orphans’ original copies of their parent’s death records

The Center’s Social Services Department accepts all referrals. The social worker will review the case study and other papers provided by the referring social worker before making a judgment on whether or not to accept the child to the facility. If admitted, the kid will be sent to the nurse so that she may assess her current health and any additional care she may require.

Procedure: How to Seek Help for Children in RSCC Centers

Before admission to RSCC, children who have been found abandoned in hospitals or the public should be referred to the Local Social Welfare & Development Officer or the Crisis Intervention Unit (CIU) of the DSWD so that the appropriate paperwork can be completed and the child can be assessed for eligibility for immediate referral to Foster Care.

Referrals to RSCC must be made in writing by the child’s local social welfare officer, CIU social worker, or hospital social worker, and must include the following materials:

Copy of the child’s birth certificate
Newborn Medical Record or Current Health Report (for those abandoned in the hospital).
Evidence of the referral party’s attempts to get in touch with the parents, relatives, or guardians should be included in the case study report. Preparing the youngster for a move or separation should be done and documented wherever possible.

Video: Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC)

Watch this video to learn more about how the Department of Social and Welfare Services (DSWD) implements the Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC) program.

According to the video, there is a dedicated facility called the Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC) that houses and helps abused and neglected kids. Professionals in the fields of social work and child care give these kids the full range of services they need, from medical and psychological care to academic assistance, and more, at the RSCC. It is because of these services that we can give hope that these disadvantaged kids will be able to overcome the trauma they’ve endured and begin rebuilding their lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Happens To Children Who Come To Live At The Center?

The answer is that each child’s stay with us is unique and personalized. The staff works closely with each child to assess their individual needs and create a care plan that addresses those needs. This can include meeting with social workers, participating in group therapy, attending school onsite, or receiving medical and dental care. Children typically continue living at the RSCC until they can safely transition into a permanent living situation, whether it be reunification with their family or placement in a loving foster or adoptive home.

2. How Do Children Arrive At The RSCC?

The intake process varies on a case-by-case basis, but a child may come to us through a referral from another agency or through self-referral. In critical emergencies, RSSC also can accept walk-in intakes round-the-clock. No matter how they arrive, the staff strives to provide every child with a warm and welcoming environment as they begin their journey toward healing and stability.

3. Is There Anything I Can Do To Support Children At The RSCC?

One way you can make an immediate impact is by donating essential items from RSSC’s wish list, such as hygiene products and fun activities for the kids. Another way to support the mission is by spreading awareness about the resources available for disadvantaged youth in your community. And of course, monetary donations are always appreciated as they are a big reason to continue providing necessary services for the children in RSSC’s care.

Summary

Children who have been abused or neglected can find temporary refuge, medical attention, and compassionate guidance at this great facility. Among the many available services and amenities is a chapel for religious worship, as well as a school, medical clinic, and recreation center. It’s wonderful to watch these disadvantaged children thrive in the RSCC’s nurturing environment.

What is DSWD Supplementary Feeding Program?

Have you ever wondered how small kids in poor communities get fed? If you’ve ever wondered what happens to malnourished kids, this is one of the programs that can help them. The DSWD Supplementary Feeding Program is a partnership between the DSWD and LGUs to provide nutritious meals to children aged two to 12 years old in poor communities.

The program is a good way to help your child grow up healthy and strong if you’re a parent. The DSWD aims to provide 1.2 million children with nutritious meals daily in schools, day care centers, and communities for the duration of this program. If you want to learn more about this program, The Supplemental Feeding Program (SFP) delivers food to children enrolled in daycare centers in addition to their regular meals as part of the DSWD’s commitment to the government’s Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) program.

Food supplements are provided to children in Day Care Centers (DCCs) in the form of hot meals during break/snack time in the morning session and break/snack time in the afternoon session, as well as Supervised Neighborhood Play (SNP).

The parents manage the feeding regimen based on a cycle of prepared meals made from local ingredients. Beneficiary children are weighed at the start of the feeding cycle and then every three months. After 120 days of feeding, the recipients’ nutritional status will be assessed for improvement and maintenance.

Also Read: How to Apply DSWD Travel Clearance for Minors

The Supplementary Feeding Program, part of the DSWD’s commitment to the government’s Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) program, offers food to children enrolled in Child Development Centers and Supervised Neighborhood Play in addition to their normal meals.

Children will be given hot snacks and meals during snack and lunch periods five days a week for 120 days.

Parents will run the feeding program following a cycle of prepared meals made from local foods. Beneficiary children will be weighed at the start of the feeding, three months later, and after 120 feeding days to verify nutritional improvement and maintenance.

Brief Background

The DSWD is implementing the President’s programs and projects aimed at addressing the issue of malnutrition. Through the implementation of the Supplementary Feeding Program, the agency can provide nutritious food to the needy.

The program provides nutritious food to children and vulnerable individuals through various food items, such as hot meals. It is carried out in five days and provides 120 days of regular care for children.

Volunteers from the community will oversee the feeding program, which is carried out using a cycle menu that includes indigenous food items. The children are weighed at the start of the program and every three months to determine their nutritional status.

Program Overview

In response to the national crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the President issued a series of proclamations in 2020. These proclamations declared a state of public health emergency in the Philippines.

The Bayanihan to Heal As One Act was enacted to help the government respond efficiently and effectively to the public health emergency. It directs all government agencies to implement coordinated interventions to address the various threats that can affect the vulnerable sectors of society.

In response to the public health emergency, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) issued a memorandum circular that stated that it would implement various social assistance programs and programs. These programs are aimed at addressing the needs of vulnerable individuals and communities.

The DSWD’s Supplementary Feeding Program aims to address the issue of food security and hunger among children in the country. It is also aimed at preventing them from experiencing a regression in their current nutritional status. To implement the program, the department has issued a new memorandum circular that provides guidelines for conducting the program during community quarantine periods.

Legal Bases of DSWD Supplementary Feeding Program

1. Republic Act No. 6972 otherwise known as the Barangay Total Development and Protection of Children Act, November 23, 1990 – Filipino children up to six years of age deserve the best care and attention at the family and community levels. Towards this end, there is hereby established a daycare center in every barangay with total development and protection of children program as provided in this Act instituted in every barangay daycare center.

2. Republic Act 9184 Government Procurement Reform Act otherwise known as An Act Providing for the Modernization, Standardization and Regulation of the Procurement Activities of the Government and for Other Purposes Section 41 (c) Reservation Clause:

Section 41. Reservation Clause The HOPE reserves the right to reject any and all bids, declare a failure of bidding, or not award the contract in the following situations:

a) If there is prima facie evidence of collusion between appropriate public officers or employees of the Procuring Entity, or between the BAC and any of the bidders, or if the collusion is between or among the bidders themselves, or between a bidder and a third party, including any act which restricts, suppresses or nullifies or tends to restrict, suppress or nullify competition;

b) If the BAC is found to have failed in following the prescribed bidding procedures; or

c) For any justifiable and reasonable ground where the award of the contract will not redound to the benefit of the GoP, as follows:

(i) if the physical and economic conditions have significantly changed so as to render the project no longer economically, financially, or technically feasible, as determined by the HoPE;

(ii) if the project is no longer necessary as determined by the HoPE; or

(iii) if the source of funds for the project has been withheld or reduced through no fault of the Procuring Entity.

3. RA 11321 otherwise known as “Sagip Saka Act”, Section 11- Direct Purchase by National and Local Government Agencies – shall directly purchase agricultural and fishery products from accredited farmers and fisherfolk cooperatives

4. Republic Act 11469 otherwise known as the “Bayanihan to Heal As One Act” Section 4 (v), Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, direct discontinuance of appropriated programs, projects or activities (P/A/P) of any agency of the Executive Department, including Government-Owned or – Controlled Corporations (GOCCs), in the FYs 2019 and 2020 General Appropriations Act (GAA), whether released or unreleased, the allotments for which remain unobligated, and utilize the savings generated from there to augment the allocation for any item directly related to support operations and response measures, which are necessary or beneficial to address the COVID-19 emergency, consistent with the herein declared national policy:

Provided, however, that the following items in the budget shall be prioritized for augmentation:

(8) under various Department of Social Welfare and Development programs, such as but not limited to Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), distribution of food and non-food items, livelihood assistance grants, ans supplemental feeding program for day care children

5. Presidential Proclamation No. 922, Declaring A State of Public Health Emergency Throughout the Philippines;

6. Office of the President, Memorandum from the Executive Secretary dated 15 March 2020, Stringent Social Distancing Measures and Further Guidelines for the Management of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Situation;

7. Administrative Order No.04 Series of 2016, Amended Omnibus Guidelines in the Implementation of Supplementary Feeding Program

8. DOH AO 2010-0010 – Revised policy on Micronutrient Supplementation to Support Achievement of 2015 MDG Targets to Reduce Under-Five and Maternal Deaths and Address Micronutrient Needs of Other Population Groups, April 19, 2010- aims to ensure appropriate provision of MS, and provide guidance to health workers in administering MS to identified population groups and to encourage the adherence and support of DOH Offices, the private sector, and other stakeholders to the revised policy

9. DOH-AO 2015-0055 National Guidelines on the Management of Acute Malnutrition for Children under 5 years, December 18, 2015.

the order generally aims to provide, policy, strategy and standards to health, nutrition, and social service providers, including government partners, civil society organizations, and donors involved in the effective and efficient implementation of the Philippine Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition;

10. Administrative Order No.07, Series of 2017: Amendments in the Administrative Order No.3 otherwise known as Supplemental Guidelines for the Twice a Day Feeding

to widen the coverage and target beneficiaries of the twice-a-day feeding covering more LGUs which are outside the 36 identified provinces indicated in the previously approved supplemental guidelines and to reach indigenous people who need additional dietary supplementation.

11. Joint Memorandum Circular No.1, Series of 2020 of Government procurement Policy Board and Commission On Audit, Section 3.1 – Emergency Procurement by the Government During a State of Public Health Emergency Arising from the Corona Virus Disease (2019)

to further support the government’s efforts to mitigate, if not contain the transmission of COVID-19 in the country, the GPPB issued Resolution Nos. 03-2020′ and 05-2020 to simplify and streamline the Rules on Negotiated Procurement (Emergency Cases) modality embodied in Section 53 (b) of RA 9184 and Section 53.2 of its 2016 IRR, as an exemption to Public Bidding under RA 9184

and enable Procuring Entities to efficiently and expediently undertake procurement during a State of Public Health Emergency

12. Memorandum Circular No. 03 Series of 2019 Revised Procedures on the Implementation of the Supplementary Feeding Program based on Amended Administrative Order No.04 series of 2016

13. Section 53.12 of the Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act

provides for negotiated procurement which involves Community Participation;

Annex I, B. Termination for Convenience – The Procuring Entity may terminate the Contract, in whole or in part, at any time for its convenience. The Head of the Procuring Entity may terminate a contract for the convenience of the Government if he has determined the existence of conditions that make Project Implementation economically, financially or technically impractical and/or unnecessary, such as, but not limited to, fortuitous event(s) or changes in law and national government policies.

14. Other issuances of local government units relating to localized imposition of community quarantine.

Program Guidelines

1. The Field Offices may work with the EPAHP and LGU to implement the remaining feeding days as per the approved alternative modalities. These days will be implemented until the end of the current cycle or until the state of emergency is lifted.

Following the declaration of the public health emergency, the government agencies and local government units that collaborated with EPAHP on procuring goods and services can continue doing so.

2. Collaborating agencies or local government units can use the funds to procure goods and services. If the necessary resources are available, the funds can also be used for the next cycle.

The agencies or local government units collaborating with EPAHP can tap the services and goods of other organizations, such as the Sustainable Living Program Association of the Philippines (SLPAS).

To ensure that the program implementation is carried out properly, the local government units should coordinate with the partners and government agencies participating in the project. The local government units should handle the distribution of the food items to the intended beneficiaries.

3. In case funds are required to be transferred to the partners of EPAHP, such as the National Dairy Administration and the Philippine Council for Agriculture, the same should be in accordance with the regulations of the Commission on Audit.

Benefits of DSWD Supplementary Feeding Program

This DSWD program is practical and efficient. It not only provides the needy with food but also serves as a tool to improve their health and well-being. The program also helps prevent malnutrition among children, which is one of the main causes of child mortality in developing countries like the Philippines. Here are some of its benefits:

Augmented support for the feeding program of children in LGU-managed Child Development Centers (CDC)/SNP areas using indigenous foods and/or locally produced foods equivalent to 1/3 of Recommended Energy and Nutrient Intake (RENI)

Improved knowledge, attitude and practices of children, parents and caregivers through intensified nutrition and health education

Improved and sustained nutritional status of the targeted children beneficiaries.

Target Beneficiaries

To ensure the efficiency and timely delivery of the program, the DSWD has identified certain age groups and qualified individuals as target beneficiaries. These are:

2-4 year-old children in Supervised Neighborhood Play;

4-year-old children enrolled in Child Development Centers; and

5-year-old children not enrolled in Child Development Centers, and;

5-12-year-old malnourished children outside the Child Development Centers.

These target groups are backed by the DSWD’s extensive list of children at risk for malnutrition, which includes: children below 5 years old with low weight for age; children between ages 1 and 4 who are in the bottom 20% of their age group in height-for-age; and children under 12 years old suffering from severe acute malnutrition.

The program is a critical response to the country’s alarming rates of child malnutrition. According to the National Nutrition Council, one in every four children in the Philippines is stunted due to chronic undernourishment. The DSWD also estimates that one million Filipino children suffer from severe acute malnutrition.

Video: DSWD’s Supplementary Feeding Program

In this video, you’ll learn more about the DSWD Supplementary Feeding Program. The DSWD’s Supplementary Feeding Program provides food to children in day care who are currently enrolled in the agency’s programs. These are part of the government’s efforts to provide early childhood education and development services.

The parents of the day care service group prepare a hot meal every day, which is usually composed of rice, fish, and vegetables. It is served to the children under the supervision of the day care workers and the city’s social welfare and development officers.

The day care workers prepare the meal by considering the various vegetables that the children prefer to eat. They then add them to the menu.

The children are weighed before they start the feeding program and every three months thereafter. After 120 days, their nutritional status will be improved.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a Supplementary Feeding Program?

The goal of the supplementary feeding program is to provide nutritious food to children in day care centers.

2. How many children have been enrolled in the supplementary feeding program?

The DSWD said that over two million children were provided with food through its supplemental feeding program from July 2015 to July 2016.

3. How will the food supplementation program work?

Children will receive food supplements for a period of 120 days. These will be served in a variety of hot meals.

The program is carried out through a prepared meal plan that involves the use of indigenous food supplies. The children will be weighed at the beginning of the program and throughout the 120 days. After the program has concluded, the children will be assessed to determine their nutritional status.

Not only will this program fill stomachs in the short term, it will also provide valuable data on the nutritional status of children in conflict areas. This information will enable the government to develop long-term programs to help improve the health of children.

4. How old are kids in supervised neighborhood play?

2 to 4 year olds enrolled in Supervised Neighborhood Play; 3 to 4 year olds enrolled in Child Development Centers; and 5 year olds enrolled in Child Development Centers but not in DepEd preschool. These age groups are considered critical because they are the most vulnerable to physical and psychological damage.

For example, a child who is not properly fed or nourished may develop physical weakness and mental retardation. In addition, he or she may be prone to illness and susceptible to diseases such as diarrhea and pneumonia, which can be fatal if not treated properly.

5. How long is food supplementation?

Hot meals and dry rations are supplied at break/snack time in the morning or afternoon session for a minimum of five (5) and a maximum of seven (7) days for a total of 120 days. This provides supplement support for a children’s feeding program that uses indigenous foods and locally produced foods equal to one-third of the Recommended Energy and Nutrient Intake (RENI) to improve and maintain the nutritional status of the targeted young beneficiaries.

It also improves the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of children, parents, and caregivers through increased nutrition and health education. Beneficiary children are weighed at the start of the feeding cycle and then every three months. After 120 days of feeding, the recipients’ nutritional status will be assessed for improvement and maintenance.

6. What is the purpose of Barangay feeding programs?

A feeding program helps alleviate hunger and improve nutrition for children and families. It also supports healthy development of the individual and the family.

Summary

Through the efforts of the DSWD and LGU, more children in the community can be provided with the nutritious food that they need to grow. This will prevent malnutrition, which can lead to stunting and other health problems such as anemia and cognitive impairment. With this program in place, children can develop their full potential and enjoy a healthy childhood.

This program is especially crucial in communities that lack access to a proper diet, which makes them vulnerable to malnutrition. By providing food for these children, their chances of survival increase significantly. Children are the future of our community and the world; we must do everything in our power to ensure that they get a healthy start in life. We hope that you’ve learned a lot from this article and that it has helped you understand the importance of the program.

The next time you see a child suffering from malnutrition, remember that there are ways to help him or her get back on track. Feel free to coordinate with the DSWD or your local government unit to get involved in their programs.

You can also make donations of food or money to organizations that are helping children affected by malnutrition. And finally, share this article with your friends and family, so they know about the importance of the program as well! You can also make donations of food or money to organizations that are helping children affected by malnutrition.

And finally, share this article with your friends and family so they know about the importance of the program as well!

DSWD AMOR Village

The plight of children and minors being victims of abuse and injustice, especially in the Philippines, is a reality that is becoming more and more apparent. As the number of cases involving abuse and sexual exploitation of children continues to rise, the DSWD AMOR Village has become a safe haven for these minors who have nowhere else to go.

Also Read: How to Apply DSWD Travel Clearance for Minors

Amor, which in Latin means “love” reflects the DSWD’s commitment to helping these vulnerable groups receive the love and care they deserve. If you are interested to learn more about this initiative, keep on reading the following sections.

What is the DSWD AMOR Village?

The DSWD AMOR Accelerating Minors Opportunity for Recovery (AMOR) Village is a haven for children and adults with physical and/or mental handicaps in San Francisco East, Anao, Tarlac. Together with its partner company, Far East Furniture, they have opened a sheltered workshop where young adults develop products made of weaved material derived from recyclable snack wrappers. Proceeds from sales are paid to AMOR without any deduction of cost.

AMOR Village is a residential facility that provides temporary shelter to children who are victims of abuse, exploitation, and trafficking. It is also a safe place where they can receive counseling and medical assistance while waiting for their cases to be resolved.

This facility for orphans and vulnerable children was established to provide them with the necessary resources and support to recover and develop their lives. It was established after they were abused and neglected by their parents in line with Republic Act No. 7610 or The Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act (R.A. 7610).

Benefits

The DSWD AMOR Village is an amazing initiative that provides countless benefits to its residents:

Provide employment opportunities in the form of livelihood training and workshops

The DSWD aims to not only provide temporary shelter for the children but also help them find jobs so that they can support themselves once they’re back in society.

The DSWD provides livelihood training and workshops to its residents to equip them with skills, enabling them to become productive members of society and help them reintegrate with their communities.

Healthcare, education and even nutritional support.

And as these children reside in this facility until they are capable of re-integrating into society, the DSWD provides them with healthcare, education and even nutritional support.

These are just some of the basic needs of children, which they, unfortunately do not receive from their parents because of severe poverty, abandonment, and safety issues.

Better physical and mental health

With their basic needs provided for, these children can become much healthier, feel more secure, and enjoy a better quality of life.

Mental health issues like depression or anxiety are common among children who have been abused, neglected or abandoned. By providing them with a safe environment and the support they need, DSWD can help these children lead happier lives.

Livelihood skills and training for employment to help children escape the cycle of poverty.

Poverty is a cycle that affects not only children but families as well. Children who grow up in impoverished households are more likely to be poor themselves as adults, perpetuating the cycle. That’s why DSWD helps children escape this cycle by providing them with skills training and livelihood opportunities so they can earn money for their families and become financially independent.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where is the DSWD AMOR Village located?

The DSWD AMOR Village can be located in San Francisco East, Anao, Tarlac.

2. How many children can the DSWD AMOR village accommodate?

As of this writing, the AMOR Village in Region III has a bed capacity of 80, but the community is located in an 8,002-square-meter lot. It has nine buildings within its premises.

3. Who are the children who can be taken in the village?

The children who can be taken in the village are those with mental disabilities (e.g. retardation, autistic, blind, have cerebral palsy, multiple disabilities, seizure disorders) and children in conflict with the law.

4. How does the program implement its services to meet the children’s needs?

Those who are able to attend school are sent to nearby public schools by a house parent. Meanwhile, special education services, as well as alternative learning systems, are provided by DepEd and NGOs to teach children in an informal setting within the village.

5. What facilities are available to the AMOR Village children?

The AMOR Village has a library, playroom, special education classroom, psychology, and therapy room and dormitories for boys and girls.

6. Is the village only for those from the region?

Although Amor Village started out as a shelter for Tarlac’s street children, it has since become a national center for caring for homeless children from all over the country.

7. What happens to children taken in the AMOR Village?

Social worker Rowena Apolto says at least 60 percent of the children in their care would probably live there permanently. She attributes this to factors such as the difficulty of tracking down their parents and relatives, and of getting communities to accept or adopt children with special needs.

Apolto added that each child in their care has a unique story. Some were taken to the center by other child care centers of the DSWD or by private institutions. The center uses social work interventions like counseling and case work to prepare the child for family reunification and community reintegration.

8. Where does the AMOR Village get its funding?

While the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Tarlac provincial government provide funding for the village, donations to supplement children’s food supply and sponsorship of activities for their rehabilitation are needed.

9. How is care delivered to the children in the facility?

According to Melba Vinluan, the head of the center, they have hired psychologists to help the staff develop treatment plans for the children.

They have also enlisted the help of house parents, including nurses and teachers with experience caring for children.

Activities at the center are designed to provide a therapeutic environment, and home-life services also accompany them. According to Vinluan, these activities can test the patience and love demonstrated by house parents as they care for their children.

Video: DSWD Region III – AMOR Village

Here’s a video of DSWD Region 3’s Amor Village. It is one of seven centers and residential care facilities being managed by DSWD Region 3, located in Anao, Tarlac, and serving children with special needs, as well as abused and neglected kids.

Despite the agency’s efforts, it still believes that the best thing for all children is to grow up in a safe and caring community.

Final Thoughts

The DSWD AMOR Village is a great example of how the government is working to improve the quality of life for our country’s children. While there are still many challenges ahead, we’re glad this facility was created and has benefited many children who need it the most.

At the same time, the need for such a facility reminds us that many children still need to be rescued. We hope our readers will continue supporting the DSWD’s efforts by volunteering or donating whenever possible.