The Nursery Support Program
Background:
The majority of children in rural areas do not have access to primary education for economic reasons: it is not provided free of charge by the State. The Hogares Comunitarios came into existence as an affordable alternative to primary school and a place where children from one to seven years of age could be cared for during the day, while their parents were working.
Each Hogar Comunitario is located in a private rural home. In most cases, the mother of this home becomes the Primary Carer of the children. She is responsible for looking after 10-12 children from Monday to Friday. Although the government covers all running costs of the home (food, water, gas etc.), she receives very little salary for her work.
Objective:
To support the improvement of conditions in the Hogares Comunitarios.
Contents of Program:
INEPAS provides:
- The professional advice of psychologists, social workers, doctors, education experts and solicitors.
- Essential teaching and medical materials.
- Volunteers to work in the Nurseries, for example as teachers, social workers or doctors.
- INEPAS also arranges meetings and workshops for the parents of the children on the responsibilities of parenthood, covering issues such as good behaviour and the importance of hygiene.