Matra financial support for the development of six day centres for children from problem families in Bosnia-Herzegovina

Twelve years after the end of the war, the plight of about 700,000 children in Bosnia Herzegovina still gives cause for serious concern. There is a marked increase in the number of children growing up in problem families. A high level of unemployment, the lack of a benefits system and untreated war traumas, often leading to alcoholism and violent behaviour, all threaten family life. Problem behaviour is often transmitted from parent to child. Growing up in a problem family entails a serious risk of ending up as an adult perpetrator or victim of (domestic) violence. That is the reason why, without counter measures, the number of problem families in Bosnia Herzegovina will continue to increase, as will youth criminality.

Romania and Poland are confronted with similar problems. These countries came to the conclusion some time ago that orphanages were not only child-unfriendly, but also very expensive and that foster care did not have sufficient capacity to provide the service needed. That is why Romanian organisations set up day centres that provide alternative, safe accommodation for children after school hours. The children can go there for homework supervision, leisure activities, individual psychological help and basic health care. Moreover, many of these centres offer courses and social work to support the parents. They often provide meals, schoolbooks and group therapy. In addition, the amenities for the local community also include showers, a launderette and voluntary work. The involvement of the children in organising activities makes it relatively cheap to run and provides them with the opportunity of learning in a positive manner to take responsibility themselves for their future.

The project, Today's children are tomorrow's parents will operate with at least 60 volunteers and 24 well-trained employees. Until recently, this sort of day centre was almost unknown in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Local project partners are very enthusiastic about it. The intention is that the initiative will have such an impact that a further spread of similar projects can be realised. A handbook will be published soon and a final conference will take place.