The Place of Safety, under the auspices of the Department of Social Development, was blessed on Thursday afternoon, 14 January 2016. The short, simple but yet meaningful ceremony was officiated by Canon Samuel Knight, the recently appointed chaplain for the Department of Social Development. Canon Knight asked God’s blessings upon the home and its surroundings while offering up a special prayer for the staff and resident.
Speaking at the ceremony the Commissioner of Social Development, Mr Sanford Richardson, described the event as a bitter-sweet moment.
Not only is the service [place of safety] essential but it is long overdue. That such an event is being held, however, is a reflection on the state of family life on the island.
The Hon Minister of Social Development, Evans Mcneil Rogers, who also brought brief remarks, said that he had mixed emotions. He reminded the small gathering that we are all God’s people and God loves us all the same. It was therefore incumbent on government to ensure that such a service was provided for children who need it. We must show that we care.
The place of safety will provide a temporary home for children whose needs cannot be effectively met in their family homes or a foster care arrangement. The home has been in operation since July of 2015.
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)
