The Problem with orphanages - Lumos

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FOR MANY FAMILIES, THE ONLY OPTION IS TO PUT THEIR CHILD IN AN INSTITUTION OR ORPHANAGE

Poverty, discrimination, war or natural disaster are all factors that can cause children to become separated from their families. For many desperate parents seeking help, their only option is to put their child in an orphanage or other institution. With support, most families could care for their children. And children without families could be looked after in family-style environments, or community-based services, where they can be provided with the care to meet their needs.

It is a global problem

The problem with orphanages and other institutions

Raising children in an orphanage or other institution harms their health and development. It increases their exposure to abuse and puts them at risk of future criminal activity.

Children in orphanages are isolated. They are isolated from their families and their communities. They are often hidden behind walls and segregated.

Even when orphanages and institutions are set up with good intentions, care is tailored to the needs of the institution, not the child. Staff struggle to cope with high numbers of children, particularly those with complex needs. Physical contact, care and attention become a luxury.

Good care has the child’s needs at its heart – whether that’s in a family or a family-like setting.

Stories from Families Lumos Has Helped

Latest stories

read more about: Reuniting families in Ukraine. (Family Voices) read more about: ‘Family is the best’ – an update on the two Marias . (Family Voices) read more about: Bringing a Family Together. (Family Voices)

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