As Minister with responsibility for the Gender and Child Affairs portfolio, I am mindful of the need for better understanding and support of children’s homes so that those in their care can be appropriately served and provided with ample opportunities to be productive and respected members of society. In the absence of ideal family settings, alternative care becomes essential to the upbringing and supervised care of a child in need of stability and mentorship. I want for all children residing in our nation to be exposed to opportunity, have their rights respected and needs fulfilled.

The St. Mary’s Children’s Home launch of the Model of Care in Trinidad and Tobago will aid in the empowerment of our most vulnerable, as it sets the tone for a future of strengthened institutional support systems which offer positive reinforcement and minimization of practices that may inhibit and negatively affect children in care. It will set the tone for the way we promote the wellbeing of residents. I look forward to our nation’s adaptation of best practices so that our younger generations can flourish holistically and realize their fullest and true potential.