It was not just about fun and merriment at the annual Food Fair and Carnival Family Day which took place yesterday at Riverside Park, Westmoorings. While the event, put on by The Dream Foundation For Children, offered a magical experience with the various activities available, it also supported charitable organisations that care for children.
Co-ordinator Lauren Lee Ah Yen said the NGO—celebrating its fifth anniversary this year—started out hosting fetes for fundraising but, because it is a foundation for children, last year the NGO hosted its first family day to include children.
“Last year was really special. We hosted the children that we help from the various homes. They were able to partake in the fun activities while also getting the chance to observe what is being done to support them. They are here again with us this year. We have them located under a special VIP tent,” said Lee Ah Yen.
She explained the NGO, based at Saddle Road in Maraval, looks after various homes and community residences for children. The group provides toiletries, groceries, schoolbooks and stationery, and assists with other expenses for children. It is often contacted by magistrates for assistance in placing children who are victims of violence and crisis situations at homes.
Lee Ah Yen said it can become a Herculean task since the NGO, which comprises a small team, needs voluntary help. She said they are completing paperwork to access financial grants because of the many requests for assistance they receive daily.
Asked about the NGC’s long-term vision, Lee Ah Yen said: “Our primary mission is to acquire a parcel of land where we can build our own home to house children in need and even incorporate family services for single parents or for a family that is disrupted and needs temporary housing. It is better that families are not separated.”
She said the parcel of land should be large enough to be self-sustaining as the NGO will use it for planting and growing its own food. There are also plans to construct a seniors’ home.
Education has not been left out as one other aspiration is to develop counselling services as well as an institute for vocational and academic training for children.
For more information on the Dream Foundation for Children and how to become a volunteer, visit them on Facebook @ The Dream Foundation for Children or call 288-5687. Emails can be sent to: thedreamfoundationtt@gmail.com