What is the absolute best environment for a child to be raised? Most, if not all of humanity, would agree that a healthy, loving family is the best environment for a child.
What does this mean for those orphaned, abused, or forgotten?
At Oasis, if a healthy, loving family is ideal, but not the reality for a child, then it becomes the goal— our goal.
Oasis for Orphans has learned many things in our process to become a child-centric and family-oriented organization. We’ve gained a list of what-not-to-do’s, as well as non-negotiables moving forward.
Our main non-negotiable has become the Family Style Model we use on-site.
Family.
A healthy family loves, nurtures, and protects one another. In addition, it becomes the integral piece of development for a child.
Family should be close in proximity. They show up.
Family should be those who pour out/in day in and day out. Everyday.
Family should care. About the tears. About the smiles. About it all.
The Model.
The kids in the Oasis program have family units they operate within at each site. There is at least one House Mama or House Father for each house on our sites. In most cases, we are operating at a 1:6 ratio of House Parents to children.
Each child has someone in their corner, believing in them. Everyday.
Each child has a home. With family dinners, morning devotions, and chores like laundry.
Each child has a FAMILY at our sites. They are ALL seen. They ALL belong.
The End in Mind.
Children in our care go back to biological relatives, when able, during school breaks. Even in terrible situations with lack of food, love, or shelter, NOTHING takes the place of family.
Our end in mind is to become a (temporary) respite and place of peace for an orphaned child. We hope temporary care allows biological relatives to get back on their feet, and eventually reunite each child with a living relative or family within the community.
The Challenge.
Sometimes this reality is hard for those of us from the west, because we have been ingrained to believe that we are the family. BUT we aren’t.
The Kenyan aunts, uncles, and grandparents left with orphaned children on their doorstep are the family. The house Mamas, Fathers, teachers, cooks, and site staff are the family.
To Oasis US Staff, trip members, and sponsors,
We are championing and cheering on those listed above!
How can you support the family today?
Sincerely,
Oasis for Orphans
