By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Continuing its commitment towards social service, the Shillong Reach Ministries on Friday opened a Day Shelter for street children of Shillong at the Assembly of God Church premises in the city.
The shelter home was inaugurated by Director of Social Welfare, HM Shangpliang in the presence of Meghalaya State Women Commission chairperson, Roshan Warjri.
A small function presided over by Rev. RG. Laloo, founder of Shillong Reach Ministries was organised on the occasion. Students of St. Edmund College, Martin Luther Christian University and Women’s College apart from some street children of Shillong were also present.
The shelter home will operate from 9 am to 8 pm everyday and street children between the agegroup of 5-15 would be accommodated during the working hours. The shelter will also provide immediate and short term assistance and also serve as a place for the children to rest while engaging in meaningful activities that will enhance their wellbeing.
The shelter will offer basic health care facilities, counselling, non-formal education, recreation and personality development programmes for the street children.
Speaking on the occasion, Shangpliang congratulated the Reach Shillong Ministries for the noble venture which would greatly benefit the street children. He also assured that the Social Welfare department would extend all necessary assistance to the Shelter as far counselling, pre -school kits and salary for the care taker are concerned.
The Reach Shillong Ministries is a voluntary Christian Ministry registered as a society under the Meghalaya Societies Registration Act and was established in the year 2007 with a mission to reach people and touch lives. The Ministry works among the street children in and around Shillong who are in need of care and rehabilitation. Female sex workers and young people in need of direction are also taken care of by the organisation.