SOS Children’s Village, Albania provides family like care services to 38 children (aged 6 -18 years), who have lost their parental care and need a family environment. Family like Care offered through six Family Like Care settings by care professionals in SOS Children Village Tirana. Care of children is provided for in each family like care setting/ with a stable attachment figure for children and young people, enabling them to build lasting bonds in the care setting) for as long as it is in the best interests of the child or young person. A group of care professionals support the main care giver to perform the leading role on child upbringing. The service is a family like care setting and is built on the qualities and characteristics of a family like care environment. Family-like care is provided with the aim of developing life skills, a better education, psychological empowerment, the gradual undertaking of responsibilities and preparation for life in a nurturing family environment.
As we mature, we come to realize that happiness can be found even in the midst of sorrowful tales. During my time in the village, I developed a newfound appreciation for the love that comes with having siblings. Sara* and Ani* became my sisters in the household, and together we shared both our troubles and aspirations. We played, laughed, and even shed tears together. Hand in hand, we grew up alongside each other and created countless cherished memories. Is that the entirety of what a sister represents in the end?
“Dear diary, I’m writing to you because I don’t want to share my wishes with my parents. I know that they will not be able to make it happen for me, and this causes sadness in their eyes…”
Ada’s mother is unable to work due to her mental health conditions, and occasionally she is unable to care for girls. Ada’s grandmother is available to help, but she is old and in poor health. Ada’s father is the only provider of food for the family, but not having a profession makes it even harder for him to find a job. Ada and her sister did not attend school regularly.
Fredi*, her father, participated in various parenting workshops to improve his parental skills. Ada and her sister were supported with psychological consulting and education, including school supplies, learning materials and after-school help. Ada and her family members worked together with the social workers, and experts to strengthen the family.
During a training session after a year of receiving support, Fredi said:
“I don’t drink, I don’t smoke, I work hard, I love my family, and I take care of my children, my wife and my mother. We all face challenges at different times, but some struggles can be more difficult than others. My situation has taught me that we should be less judgmental and more supportive of those going through difficult times. Through my experiences, I have come to understand that even simple acts of kindness can have a significant impact on those who are struggling with various challenges in their lives.”
