When most of us think of the definition of “orphan,” we think of a child whose parents have died. Though that is technically the definition, most organizations today, especially children’s homes, use the word differently.
Approximately 80% of children in orphanages, are not true orphans. “Poverty orphans” or “social orphans” are children who have been separated from family due to poverty or other social justice issues. Some organizations truly believe they are doing a good thing in “rescuing” children from difficult, even dyer situations and bringing them into a place where they can offer them a safety, plenty of food and nutrition, and education. But in doing this, the children are removed from something that cannot be replicated in an institution or group home, no matter how “home-like” it is. They are removed from their true identity, the ability to be a part of their family and heritage, feeling the true sense of belonging to something of their own. Yes, they can be loved in a children’s home and even feel a part. But it’s not their own; it’s not truly family. We don’t believe this is the right approach.
At HCO we work to do whatever possible to reunite babies with families who have been separated as a result of social issues. When a baby comes into our home, we start by learning as much as we can about their situation. If we can locate their family, we take the time to find out why they have been separated or abandoned.
Is it because someone within their family or community rejects their child?
Is it because they could not feed their child?
Is it because they want a better future for their child than they believe they can give them?
Is it because they could not pay school fees to educate their child?
Is it because their young mother cannot go to school if she keeps her baby?
There are so many reasons why a child may be abandoned. Is there something we can do to help support this family, to fill in the gap so that they can keep their child and meet their needs?
We believe that children belong in families. If possible, we believe they should be with their biological families. For families who struggle to care for their children due to poverty and other social issues, we can come alongside them and help.
That’s what we are here for…for the babies and their families. When you support HCO, you are caring for orphans in a healthy, holistic, healing way. We not only care for the child, but for the family.