The Juvenile Justice and Welfare Council (JJWC) acknowledges Davao del Norte Bahay Pag-Asa (BPA) for setting a good example in securing the welfare of its residents and employees amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic.
On the onset of the pandemic, the center geared up by conducting orientation to its residents as regards the ill effect of COVID-19 virus. The orientation was focused on proper hygiene and measures on how to avoid being infected to include social preparation and the new guidelines and policies particularly on the temporary suspension of family visitation and other activities identified by the center.
Their nurse also provides regular update on the health crisis situation and gives health management sessions every morning meeting.
During this pandemic, the center is strictly implementing health protocols.
It also focused on taking care of the mental health of its residents. A psychologist provides close door counseling to emotionally affected individuals.
In addition to this, residents were allowed to communicate with their families through call and text. Social workers were also tasked to explain and update the status of their children inside the center to their families as well as to the residents.
Upon placement of the province of Davao del Norte under the state of General Community Quarantine, the center has lifted the family visitation ban.
Based on its new guidelines, visitors must have a schedule prior to the visit, visitors are also limited to two individuals per resident, health protocols must be observed, and giving of belongings, groceries and other stuff is temporarily prohibited.
On the other hand, residents that are scheduled to be discharged from the center shall follow the new protocol. The discharge shall be held at the temporary tent inside the center’s compound with one representative from the parent or guardian, the local government unit and the barangay council for the protection of children, and there will be a quick discharge conference to be conducted as final preparation for the minor’s reintegration to his family and community.
The JJWC urges other Bahay Pag-Asa’s, youth care facilities and rehabilitation centers to replicate if applicable the promising practices of protecting children’s rights in the context of managing and mitigating the risks of the COVID-19.
And for the local government units to also share their own promising practices to JJWC and other forum so others can also replicate and learn from them.
BPA Davao del Norte is a Department of Social Welfare and Development Level 2 Accredited Bahay Pag-Asa. It is located at Poblacion, New Corella, Davao del Norte.
