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Amazing Grace Foundation ............Light of Hope |
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History of the Amazing Grace FoundationThe BeginningIn December, 1996, a group of concerned individuals who were interested in providing a home for Denise Howell and some other children with special needs met, and as a result of that meeting, the idea for the Amazing Grace Project was born with the intention of caring for homeless children, with special needs, who were currently residing at the Holberton Hospital and the Fiennes Institute – a home usually for destitute citizens. FactThe
problems which these children face cannot be easily solved, because, by
definition, “disability” means a physical incapacity, either congenital or
caused by injury, disease etc, which becomes a permanent feature of a person’s
life. DevelopmentThe Amazing Grace home has been developed to provide accommodation for a few children and, ultimately, to have the home continue to serve these children into adulthood. This is the 5th year of operation and it is hoped that the foundation would be a model for future homes and would provide for youngsters, as yet unborn. The home environment has been created with a family-like atmosphere, which we believe is most suitable for especially raising children with special needs. The staff are called “house parents” to add to the homely atmosphere that is intended. Primary GoalThe Primary goal of this facility is to provide a place of residence for homeless children with special needs. The facility will have fully functioning and in some cases expanded capabilities in areas ranging from the Early Intervention Programme to a Skills Training Project in order for the home to maintain financial independence. The home helps to promote public awareness of the fact that all individuals, young or old, with special needs can become functional members of society. Registration & StructureA) Construction of the home began on August 11th 1997. The home was officially opened on June 30th 1998. B) The Amazing Grace Foundation is a non-profit charitable organization. C) The organization is managed by a board of directors all of who are volunteers. These responsible citizens have agreed to contribute their time, experience and resources to this worthy cause. The directors are elected in accordance with the By-Laws of the company. The Chairman of the board is the Chief Executive Officer of the organization. The daily operations of the home are managed by one supervisor, who is seconded from the Citizens Welfare Division, of the Ministry of Housing, Culture & Social Transformation. D) The daily operations of the home is managed by a supervisor, who is seconded from the Citizens Welfare Division of the Ministry of Health and Social improvement. E) The Government of Antigua and Barbuda gives full recognition to the work being undertaken by the home. As a result the government grants concessions on duties payable as well as offers some further assistance, such as providing the salaries of the supervisors Appreciation to the CommunityIn the beginning of bringing the home into existence, a successful appreciation ceremony was held on December 18th 1998, to show appreciation to those who gave donations to the project and also to provide the donors with “thank you” certificates. An annual week of activities is being planned, starting in 2003, to thank the community. Also, each year there is a wonderful Christmas party, where children with special needs are invited from the community, to participate in the festivities of the home. What Amazing Grace OffersResidencyAt present the Foundation has seven residents. They are receiving long-term care and attention, with around the clock staff supervision. Early Intervention ClinicThis clinic is staffed with a qualified pediatrician who services approximately 150 children within the community. Medical examinations services are free of cost. Day Care/Educational ActivityThis area is presently being developed. Limited space in our present building prohibits the acceptance of more than a handful of children. There are plans to build a separate building to satisfy this area of great need. Trained personnel will be recruited to develop this activity. Laundry ServicesAs part of our effort to make the home sustainable, we hope to be in full operation by 2007 Conclusion The Amazing Grace Project needs your support. Any support you can offer will be greatly appreciated. Any organization or individual that makes a contribution will be acknowledged through the media and recognized by the Government of Antigua & Barbuda Ministry of Housing, Culture & Social Transformation. The Foundation is hoping all citizens will work together to make it possible for these individuals to prosper. Bank Account Details Bank of Antigua |
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