The social work
Following an initial phase of research into the needs and life stories of our beneficiaries, MCT and GMH have developed a project that seeks to support the children and their families in a holistic way. Our three social workers are currently offering assistance to 41 families and 91 children by facilitating their access to health and legal services, by providing emotional support, acquiring identity papers, and encouraging positive behaviours. Our Centre, open since October 2010, is conveniently situated in the heart of Taroudannt, near the places where most children spend their time and also where their families live, thus allowing for regular home visits and follow-ups with their families.
The education project
In January 2011, MCT and GMH added a teacher to our team, whose main task is to provide educational assistance to children through scheduled homework support sessions. He is leading a team of volunteers to assist children with their work in 3 sessions every day, Monday through Friday, with a special support given to children at risk of dropping out of school. This complements school-based learning and improves access to basic education while nurturing important values and attitudes.
The women’s project
MCT’s women’s project targets the women whose children are part of our Street Children project. Run by our social worker, Badiaa, it aims to further enhance community development through awareness raising and information services on child development, child care and reproductive health. In its initial phase, this takes the form of one-on-one sessions with the mothers, coupled with scheduled information sharing seminars in partnership with local agencies supporting women. The long-term objective is to set the ground for a skill learning and income-generating scheme, and to contribute to a positive family environment that discourages the choice of a life on the street.
The sports project
The children in MCT’s Street Children Project need an accessible, safe place to participate in a variety of sports activities that serve as an alternative to spending their time on the street. In order to participate in these sports activities, the children must adhere to a set of rules established by the sports instructor, regarding their state of sobriety and attitude during sports sessions. This will help the children learn about discipline, mutual respect and responsibility whilst engaging in a team activity that is fun and delivered in a safe environment.
The crèche and pre-school project
Many of the families that we work with in Taroudannt include children below school age who require care and attention from adults during the day, and whose families struggle to look after them whilst maintaining employment. Therefore, we propose to provide crèche and pre-school activities to provide them with decent care during the day and alleviate the pressure on their families. These children need an accessible, safe place where they can participate in a variety of activities that serve as an alternative for mothers who are already struggling to support their families.
To find out more about how you can help our projects develop, please e-mail us at info@moroccanchildrenstrust.org