Care and Support for Orphans and Vulnerable Children: The Case of Mekane Eyesus Children Development Association in Sirti Town, Jidda Woreda, North Shewa, Oromia Region.

Abstract

In many countries, OVCs are facing multifaceted problems including very limited access to education, housing or shelter, and basic social welfare, etc (Nar, 2020). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the care and support for orphans and vulnerable children provided by NGOs with particular emphasis on MECDA in Sirti town. The participants of the study were OVCs, caregivers of OVCs, and staff of the organization. Accordingly, 31 participants were purposively selected. A purposive sampling technique was used. In this research, a qualitative approach was employed in which the data was collected through key informant interviews, in depth interviews, focus group discussions, observation, and document review. All data from the fieldwork have been transcribed, translated, organized, coded, and analyzed thematically. The findings of the study identified that MECDA‘s has been providing care and supports/services to address the problems of OVCs. The supports and cares provided by the MECDA include food and nutrition provision, different types of cloth provision, shelter provision, health service, psychosocial services, educational supports, and recreational and sport service provision. Moreover, the study has revealed the existing challenges faced by the organization in providing the supports and care which include stigma and discrimination faced by the beneficiary children; parent sickness/death, weak coordination among MECDA and other NGOs; educational associated challenges; health service challenges; lack of trained manpower, an imbalance between the care provided and the number of the care seekers, family poverty and dependency syndrome are among the major ones this research identified. On the other hand, the study has revealed some existing potential opportunities (prospects) of the organization (MECDA) in providing the supports and cares are community acceptance and supports, availability of funds for the care and support program, government policy/program support, continuity (sustainability) of the program, adoption of supportive policies and collaborations across the care sector. Working with the parties of the community who have the serious problems especially with the most marginalized, underprivileged, and vulnerable groups like OVCs, is a concern of the social work profession.