Celebrating 25 Years of Action for Street-Connected Children: The Impactful Story of Chance for Children
Street-connected children has been profound and pervasive in Ghana since the 1990s. In 2011, a staggering 61,000 children were recorded to be living on the streets of Accra alone, with migrant children comprising 66% of this vulnerable population, according to data by the Department of Social Welfare.
In the face of this humanitarian crisis, Chance for Children has been a beacon of hope for a quarter of a century, offering a lifeline of support, opportunity, and empowerment not only to the children but also to their families. It has been a journey filled with compelling achievements and fulfilling moments, from the organization’s humble beginnings to its current nationwide impact.
A Humble Beginning
In 1999, Amon Kotey and Daniela Reudisueli Sodjah founded Chance for Children out of a heartfelt desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of street-connected children in Ghana. What started as a small initiative by two individuals has since evolved into a non-profit organization with over 80 employees operating across six regions, annually impacting the lives of over 4000 street-connected children and their families. From its inception, the organization’s mission has been clear: to improve the safety, well-being, and livelihoods of street-connected children and their families, which is now being successfully carried out throughout Ghana.
Comprehensive Support Services
Recognizing the complex needs of street-connected children, Chance for Children (CFC) has diligently developed and implemented a holistic and integrated approach over the past 25 years. This framework combines street work, family strengthening, and community engagement to create diverse, meticulously crafted programs and initiatives, including health, education, emotional and social development, family reunification, volunteer engagement, and handicraft production, to cater to each child’s needs.
The Drop-in Centre
The Drop-in Centre (DIC) addresses the immediate needs of street-connected children, providing essential services to alleviate the pressures of living on the streets. Established in 2015 in Agbogbloshie, the DIC offers hot meals, medical and psychological care, educational opportunities, and psychosocial support. By offering these services, the DIC contributes to achieving Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) such as universal primary education and promoting mental well-being. Additionally, street workers actively engage with children in areas such as Agbogbloshie, Kokomba, Railways, and Abbossey Okai, establishing trust and rapport with approximately 400-600 contacts made monthly.
Residential Homes for Children
Chance for Children’s Residential Homes, located in Hebron near Nsawam, provide a safe haven for street-connected children who have nowhere else to turn. These homes offer temporary refuge, food, shelter, and emotional support to children while preparing them for reintegration into society. More than just a roof over their heads, the homes serve as nurturing environments where children receive love, care, and guidance from dedicated staff members.
Branches
In 2021, Chance for Children expanded its operations into other parts of Ghana, establishing branches engaged in street work, family support, and community engagement. This expansion reflects the organization’s commitment to reaching more children and families in need across the nation. Currently we have branches in Kumasi, Tamale, Takoradi, Dambai and Accra. We are connecting with more stakeholders and partners through the branches to impact children across the country.
Alignment with Millennium Development Goals
Chance for Children’s work closely aligns with the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), particularly in eradicating extreme poverty and hunger, and achieving universal primary education. By providing shelter, education, healthcare, and services to street-connected children, the organization plays a vital role in advancing these important development goals and creating a more just and equitable world for all.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
As Chance for Children commemorates 25 years of transformative work, the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering street-connected children and building a brighter future for generations to come. With a legacy of impact and a vision for the future, Chance for Children continues to be a beacon of hope, resilience, and opportunity for vulnerable children in Ghana and beyond.
In celebrating 25 years of service, Chance for Children reflects on its journey of impact, resilience, and transformation. From humble beginnings to a legacy of empowerment, the organization has undoubtedly touched the lives of thousands of street-connected children, offering them hope, support, and opportunity in the face of adversity. As it looks ahead to the next chapter, Chance for Children remains dedicated to its mission of creating a world where every child has the chance to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.
Cheers to 25 more years of changing lives and families! Cheers to the organization, its partners, sponsors, generous donors, the Association and Foundation Board in Switzerland, and the dedicated team who have been instrumental in this success!Top of Form
For more information on the activities of Chance for Children please Contact:
The Director
Daniel Awuley Nartey
+233 24 48 64 096
awuley.nartey@chance-for-children-org
