Charles Pantano, an island visitor from the USA who also owns a home on Aruba delivered a generous donation to Imeldahof Children’s home. Charlie received assistance this week from two local residents who did not want to be compensated for their time or effort, and as a form of gratitude Charlie decided to deliver a cash donation to Imeldahof in their name.
Charlie was received by Nimia Orman, the pedagogical coordinator who explained that Imeldahof Children’s Home is a private foundation, in Noord, adjacent to the Santa Anna church, capable of taking in up to 52 children.
While the home does receive minimal support from the government, the majority of its many needs must be met by donations and Imeldahof is dependent on the community’s generosity and willingness to help.
The objective of the children’s home, explains Nimia, is to offer temporary shelter and guidance to children who, for a variety of reasons, are unable to remain with their families of origin. In most cases this is only until placement with relatives or foster parents can be arranged.
A few of the reasons for placement of children at Imeldahof are mental or physical abuse, neglect and/or alcohol or drug use by parents, or jail terms imposed on primary caretakers.
Imeldahof provides for children physically as well as emotionally, offering them safety and structure in a supportive, loving environment,
Every child receives individual guidance, and their daily schedules also reflect their special needs and likes. While living in the home, children are observed continuously and their needs are assessed and adjusted on an ongoing basis.
Children with specific emotional and behavioral challenges receive guidance by specialists and still participate in the general program. Ballet, music, taekwondo, arts and crafts, are offered as part of the curriculum and children are encouraged to attend regular elementary and secondary schools in their own neighborhoods.
Pictured here Charlie touring Imeldahof as he hands over his much needed donation.