Belnavis

The majority of children in government-run homes and places of safety may not be spending the Yuletide season with their biological parents, but at least one place of safety is going all out to ensure that the children in its care are fêted.

Laverne Belnavis, manager of Homestead Place of Safety in St Andrew, said the home, in collaboration with other organisations, has been having several treats for the 65 children, between the ages of nine and 18, who reside there.

"Several service clubs and churches in the area have come in to (fête our children)," Belnavis said.

Belnavis noted that the home has made arrangements for family members to visit their children for the season, while some have been sent home to stay with their families, provided that the Child Development Agency assesses and approves the residence.

Special dinner

The manager said the home also ensures that the girls give back to people who are less fortunate than themselves.

"I tell them that it is not about what you receive, but what you give," said Belnavis.

On Monday, Homestead organised a special dinner for the children and members of staff and a dinner and concert was hosted for them yesterday (Christmas Day).

"For many children, it is difficult, because they are not going home, so we try to explain to them that we are their family," said Belnavis.

Fifteen-year-old Shanae Peterslives at the Homestead Place of Safety, but she is enthusiastic because she is spending the Yuletide season with her family.

Activities

Peters spent the festive season at the children's home last year and while she enjoyed the activities which were organised, there is no place like home.

"I am so happy this Christmas because I am going home to spend time with my family and friends," Peters told The Gleaner earlier this week.

And all she wanted for Christmas was peace.

"I just want to have a peaceful and happy holiday," Peters said.

There are some 3,000 children in government-run homes across the island.

petrina.francis@gleanerjm.com