On the morning of November 25, 2023, at 9:30 am, the Residential Care Meeting (RCM) convened, setting a positive tone with a brief and meaningful prayer. Attended by 15 members, including distinguished figures such as Sr. Lissy Chacko, the province leader, and Link Councillor Sr. Deepa, alongside other councillors and participants, the meeting unfolded as a collaborative forum for discussion and reflection.
Sr. Preethi, the convenor, extended a warm welcome to the attendees and provided a concise overview of RCM, drawing inspiration from the teachings of our Foundress, St. Mary Euphrasia Pelletier. The Residential Care Ministry, encompassing entities such as babies' homes, adoption centers, single mothers' homes, boardings, hostels, crisis intervention centers, and foster care homes, was outlined for the benefit of all present.
The link councillor reiterated the essence of RCM, citing insights from St. Mary Euphrasia Pelletier's Conferences and referencing St. Matthew's Gospel 18:10. This sparked a lively and interactive conversation among the participants.
The annual reports of the concerned institutions were presented, bringing to light both accomplishments and challenges. Concerns such as the shortage of qualified and committed staff, increasing demand for residential care, especially in institutions connected to schools, and the need for the Crisis Center's registration were shared.
Mrs. Arlene Manoharan led an insightful session on "Strengthening and Safeguarding in Residential Ministries." Emphasizing the importance of living by the deeper aspirations of policies honoring human rights, she shed light on safeguarding policies operating within structures, places, and among people. Key components included creating and maintaining a safe environment, responding to abuse, and continuous monitoring. Various types of abuses were discussed, underlining the importance of awareness and vigilance.
Interaction with the Provincial Leader (PLT) marked a pivotal moment as Sr. Lissy expressed gratitude for the unit's dedicated service and encouraged the inclusion of success stories in future reports. The Enfold Programme, presented by Ms. Arlene as a free resource for all units, garnered positive feedback from other members of the PLT.
A heartening suggestion emerged to organize a get-together for former residents who had lived in the institutions in previous years, receiving a warm welcome from the group.
The day's session concluded on a joyful note with a vote of thanks, leaving participants inspired and motivated to continue their valuable contributions to residential care ministries.