The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is working to enhance its support for children in residential care facilities across the Philippines.
In collaboration with its partner-stakeholders, DSWD is proposing the implementation of adoption and alternative child care programs.
These new services aim to provide children with better opportunities as they transition from these centers into new families in collaboration with the National Authority for Child Care (NACC).
Adoption and Alternative Child Care Programs
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian has emphasized the importance of expanding the services offered by residential care facilities.
By adding adoption and alternative child care programs, the DSWD aims to create additional pathways for children to reintegrate into society through new family environments.
Gatchalian highlighted that these programs will serve as an integral exit mechanisms, providing children with more options for their future.
The Role of NACC
The move is being carried out in partnership with the National Authority for Child Care (NACC), an attached agency of the DSWD.
The NACC’s mandate includes finding adoptive families for children, and this new collaboration aims to strengthen the adoption and alternative child care system in the country.
According to Gatchalian, the law creating the NACC has already taken effect, and the agency is fully committed to its mission.
Stakeholder Consultation and Policy Development
Engaging with Partner-Stakeholders
The DSWD’s efforts include consulting with various stakeholders to develop policies that will reinforce the adoption and alternative child care system.
This consultation process is essential to ensure that the programs meet the needs of the children and the capabilities of the facilities.
By involving stakeholders, the DSWD aims to create a comprehensive and effective policy framework.
Strengthening Child Care Facilities
Gatchalian has assured that the DSWD will provide assistance and support to child care facilities operated by the DSWD, local government units, and private organizations.
This support will come through the DSWD Academy and NACC regional counterparts. The goal is to capacitate these facilities to implement the new programs successfully.
Technical Assistance and Compliance
Licensing and Accreditation
Under the new update, facilities that do not currently have adoption and alternative child care programs will receive technical assistance from the DSWD’s Standards Bureau.
This assistance will help them comply with licensing and accreditation requirements, ensuring that they meet the necessary standards to operate these programs.
Expertise from NACC
In addition to the support from the Standards Bureau, the NACC will provide technical expertise to help establish adoption and alternative child care programs in identified facilities.
This expertise is imperative for ensuring that the programs are implemented effectively and meet the needs of the children.
Conclusion
The DSWD’s move to implement adoption and alternative child care programs in residential care facilities is a significant step toward improving the lives of children in the Philippines.
By collaborating with the NACC and consulting with stakeholders, the DSWD aims to create a robust policy framework that will strengthen the adoption and alternative child care system.
With technical assistance and support, child care facilities across the country will be better equipped to provide children with the opportunities they need to transition into new family environments.
This development represents a hopeful future for many children, offering them a chance to find permanent, loving homes.