Chiara Ciminello, Senior Child Protection Specialist, UNICEF the Netherlands Chiara Ciminello supports the efforts of the Court of Guardianship, MECYS, ESF-7, and other key stakeholders working for children to strengthen…
How should shelters safely accommodate children?
Saving lives with hurricane shelters
During a disaster, Chantale Groeneveldt and her colleagues coordinate everything related to equipping, opening and coordinating the hurricane shelters. People in need also receive referrals to emergency supplies and services,…
I have to keep pushing for my children
Despite the abuse Celia and her children experienced from her husband, for a long time she was unable to leave him. After nine years, she escaped to the Crisis Shelter…
Animation: journey to resilience
When dealing with a traumatic experience – such as child abuse or a disaster – resilience plays a major role. But what is resilience and what factors play a role…
How do you prepare your children for a disaster?
As a parent, you can make a difference before, during and after a disaster. Offer your child both practical and mental support. Four parents share their views about what matters…
Editorial: Family is the foundation of our lives
Family is the foundation of our lives and the cornerstone of our society. It is where we learn important values and morals that shape us as individuals and contribute to…
Fostering and adoption on Sint Maarten
Kimberly Dort-Brown, Head of the CoG, and Meredith Concincion, Foster Care Coordinator of SJIS, share the ins and outs about fostering and adoption on Sint Maarten: The Court of Guardianship…
Experts discuss the consequences of teen pregnancy
Milangela Francisca, a social worker, and Janique Kolfin-Baly, an educational psychologist, have been guiding young people for the past 14 years. They are both currently assigned to the Sundial School…
Damali Bryson, on becoming a foster parent
On a regular day in January, while meeting with my colleague, I received an unexpected phone call from the Foundation Judicial Institute St. Maarten (SJIS): “Are you willing to foster…
The power of grandma’s love and support
Column by Aisaiah Nunes My grandmother’s kindness and support have been a constant source of strength for me. Without her, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Growing up in…