Shelter for street children in Shillong

Newmai News Network SHILLONG, March 12 With an effort to create more impact in the lives of the street children, the Reach Shillong Ministries (RSM) on Wednesday opened its second Open Day Shelter for street children of Shillong at Nongmynsong, Dong Umkdait. The Open Shelter will cater to all children in need of care anti protection like street and working children, rag pickers, orphaned, deserted and particularly those without home and family ties, vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. The Open Day shelter was inaugurated and dedicated by Pastor in-charge of Nongmynsong Presbyterian Church Rev. R Phanbuh. A small function presided over by Board Member of RSM, S G Lyngdoh was organised on the occasion. The Local Headman B Khonglah along with the Secretary of the Dorbar Shnong Nongmynsong, representative from Seng Kynthei Shnong Nongmynsong, representatives from the different churches, apart from some street children was also present. The shelter home, the second for the Ministry apart from the existing one at Iew Mawlong, opposite Anjalee, will operate from 7 to 5. The Open Day shelter apart from educating will also provide immediate and short term assistance and also serve as a place for the children to rest while engaging in meaningful activities that will enhance their wellbeing. The shelter will offer basic health care facilities, counseling, non-formal education and recreation and personality development programs for the street children. Speaking on the occasion, Rev R Phanbuh congratulated the Reach Shillong Ministries for the noble venture which would greatly benefit the street children. The Pastor while encouraging the Ministry draws insight from the scripture that "We are called to Love Christ and show compassion to the children".