Festive opening of new assisted living building for young people in Caribbean Netherlands
Friday, June 21st, the new assisted living building was festively opened in the presence of residents, invited guests, Fundashon Cas Bonairiano (FCB) and Regiline Sambo (head of Youth Care at ZJCN, Ministry of VWS).
On the 11th of March 2022, Fundashon Cas Bonairiano (FCB) and Public Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS) signed an agreement to build a residential facility for structural housing for assisted living. This residential facility is especially for young people aged 16 to 23 from Bonaire, Saba and St. Eustatius, who are in a long-term assistance process at Jeugdzorg and are ready for the next step towards greater independence.
In assisted living there is room for 13 young people, of which 6 places are currently filled. Besides going to school or working part-time, the young people are supported in various areas of life. Supported living cooperates with various assistance organisations within the social chain to provide tailor-made guidance.
Denise Crestian-Coffie (Fundashon Cas Bonairiano):
"This project is more than just a building; it is a promise and a hopeful future for the young people who will find their home here. The great thing is that FCB has not only provided their current place to live but has also made arrangements for them to move on to regular FCB social housing, for those who successfully complete the assisted living programme. This gives the young people a future perspective with the prospect of living independently."
Regiline Sambo:
"With this new step, we are building a future where every young person has the opportunity to develop fully and build an independent life. Together, we create an environment where everyone feels seen and supported. Cooperation with other care organisations plays a crucial role in the young people's process towards independence."
Youth resident:
”When I started BWB, I was always aggressive, angry. But because of BWB, I've changed a lot. I am still a bit angry at everything else, but I am a lot happier and more proud of myself for how long I have changed and for how far I have changed. I think some of the things I changed were getting my boating licence, my open water and finding a job and learning how to be more independent."