More and more people are moving into cities and that number is further increased by the rapid rate of natural increase. A large population would result in increased demand for jobs and housing. However, this is not demand is not always met, especially in developing countries like Trinidad and more specifically, in the city of Port of Spain. People are unemployed and even homeless and some cannot even feed themselves. Yet, this does not hinder the natural increase rates. How do people then survive when they have lots of of mouths to feed but have no jobs and therefore no income? What alternative do they then adopt?
The photo above represents the St Dominic's Children's Home which was established in 1871 in Belmont. It is home to approximately 31 children. Usually when one reflects on the term "home" of close family members and perhaps the extended family. However, this home houses children of all types of backgrounds and walks of life that have been abandoned, given up, taken due to acts negligence etc. However, these children's homes provide the opportunity for some of the children there to be placed into a new family. Orphanages are temporary homes. So what happens to the orphans that do not get placed with other families? And what happens after they turn 18?
According to the International Adoption Guide (2011), "Orphanages cannot look after children forever and they usually have a cut off period usually 15 or 16 when the children 'age out' of the system. They are given, if they are lucky, a half way house and some funds and hopefully an educational future. For others, not so fortunate, will find that the doors are opened and they are expected to fend for themselves." Many orphans who do not get adopted face a tough life. While some are fortunate, others who are not may turn to illegal means to support themselves. In my opinion, more should be done to ensure that after leaving the orphanage they are equipped with life skills that could then allow them to find employment and proper housing.
Reference:
International Adoption Guide. 2011. "The Prognosis of Orphans." International Adoption Guide, Accessed April 09.
http://www.internationaladoptionguide.co.uk/before-you-adopt/54/what-happens-to-orphans-when-age-out-orphanage.html
According to the International Adoption Guide (2011), "Orphanages cannot look after children forever and they usually have a cut off period usually 15 or 16 when the children 'age out' of the system. They are given, if they are lucky, a half way house and some funds and hopefully an educational future. For others, not so fortunate, will find that the doors are opened and they are expected to fend for themselves." Many orphans who do not get adopted face a tough life. While some are fortunate, others who are not may turn to illegal means to support themselves. In my opinion, more should be done to ensure that after leaving the orphanage they are equipped with life skills that could then allow them to find employment and proper housing.
Reference:
International Adoption Guide. 2011. "The Prognosis of Orphans." International Adoption Guide, Accessed April 09.
http://www.internationaladoptionguide.co.uk/before-you-adopt/54/what-happens-to-orphans-when-age-out-orphanage.html
Can you describe or link us to information on what is currently in place for children aging out of homes in TT?
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