Street children need our help [Archives:2005/825/Letters to the Editor]

N. Y.
[email protected]
I was struck deeply after I read the article titled “Center for homeless children expands” in regards to homeless children in Yemen. I was moved by the efforts made by the Social Fund for Development to assist in expanding the facility.

As a family violence worker in the U.S., I have encountered many cases where abuse/neglect has been the major cause for the removal of children from their homes. It has also been the reason why many children run away. Understanding this dynamic is crucial only because building more facilities to house the homeless children is a blessing. However, it won't cure the problem.

On the flip-side, I believe reaching out into the community and teaching families how to be supportive parents may provide effective long-term results. Many of times it due to the parents lack of knowledge on how to parent because of the poor parenting skills they experienced as children.

Even if the family structure is affected by poverty, neglect, abuse, or mental health issues, a strength-based approach in dealing with family issues may be an outlet for all members of the family to cope. Coping strategies enhance personal growth in each family member to reshape their patterns of behavior and aspire beyond their comfort zone.
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