The NGO NCC Inc. conducted the first of two Gender Based Violence sensitization sessions in Region 8’s capital y of Madhia which was held at the Assemblies of God Church Building.
With mobilization done by Community Support Officer Brenda Cruz the team of Mr.Park, Ms. Williams, and Ms. Beckles began the session after a brief prayer by a local pastor.
GBV specialist Ms. Buedeen Williams gave an overview of the NCC and our partners, highlighting the free services offered to the migrant community and how these can be accessed by those in attendance.
Attorney at Law Hugh Park began his presentation by sharing some success stories of how the NCC would have assisted migrants in the recent past.
During this session the subject of citizenship and the process. He explained that after five you can apply and be granted through the naturalization process and also marriage.
A few concerns came from the floor in the areas of law enforcement and healthcare services. It was expressed that there exists difficulties in accessing healthcare services underscored by the treatment by some workers at the main facility in the town. The other challenge was accessing immigration services.
These issues were documented by the team with the intention to have them raised during a planned engagement with the regional authorities. Specific legal advice was offered to a client at the end of the session by Mr. Park.
The importance of good mental and the availability of support services was the main focus of the Psychologist attached to the NCC Ms. Latoya Beckles. As she expounded on the reasons for valuing mental health affirmations came from the gathering by way of words, smiles, and nodding. She indicated her availability to have one on one sessions if needed while in the region and the availability of online sessions as part of the services provided.
Some care packages along with requested items were handed over to the persons present.
An offer by the local law enforcement to join our second sensitization session to explain their processes and procedures and also to better understand the challenges of the migrant community. This along with an engagement with regional authorities will form the team’s day two activities.
