Description
Children living in foster houses in the underprivileged region of Pétervására do not receive as many support as they would need and programs from the institute for spending their leisure time would be meaningful. Also the local inhabitants do not know them and do not treat them fairly as they have prejudices against orphans. The main objective of the project is to organize creative programs for the children living in foster homes to strengthen their personal relationships, to foster new community experiences, to help release conflicts and to support the integration to the community so they may become more accepted by the wider society. Direct group: 40 orphans from 2 different orphanages (Pétervására, Istenmezeje); 10 teachers and professionals working in the orphanages; 15 active members of PETIFE association. Indirect group: Local inhabitants of Pétervására and its area (5-6000 people).
Summary of project results
Most of the society had prejudices and incomplete information about the youngsters in state care. The main objective of the project was to combat exclusion and racism, and to minimise the prejudices towards the disadvantaged youths growing up in foster homes. It was an aim to organize such programs that help children to improve their social behaviour, to make personal contacts and to handle conflicts; also to spend their free time usefully. 13 volunteers were trained and involved, also pedagogies and professionals contributed to the project. A sport day, 10 thematic workshops were organized with the participation of 17 children in average. Themes were rights of children, administration, sustainability, cultural heritage and talent management. The acceptance and reputation of foster homes increased as inhabitants got know more about them. A short film edited at the end that helped to introduce moments of involved youth.
Summary of bilateral results