A NEW YEAR HOPE FOR VULNERABLE CHILDREN IN NIGERIA

This report highlights Tabitha Home's activities over the past two months – January and February. As a care home for orphans and vulnerable children, we are committed to “Inspiring Hope in Vulnerable Children.” Our key focus areas are Child Development, Social Integration, and Sustainable Entrepreneurship. We provide group and individual therapies, art and craft training, outdoor and in-house projects, and essential services such as nutrition, shelter, education, medical care, psychosocial support, rehabilitation, and life skills.

Beyond child care, Tabitha Home empowers women, promotes sustainability, and advocates for teenagers and young adults. We support grassroots families through household economic projects and essential aid for indigent families.

Each month, the children select a theme that shapes their activities, fostering life skills and resilience. In January 2025, the theme was “Discipline,” followed by “Love” in February.

Tabitha Home aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and upholds child safeguarding policies to protect children's rights.

ACHIEVEMENTS

Tabitha Home children succeeded in various activities

• 6^th February One of the children that gained admission to study Economics celebrated her matriculation ceremony
• On the 15^th February Some of our children in ss3 attended the Outpour of Fragrance  love for JAMB PROJECT with one securing 3^rd position overall.
• On the 27^th February Two of the seven children that participated in their schools inter-house sport activities won medals in running and sack race

OVERVIEWChild Protection

Tabitha Home provides shelter for 63 children in its newly built care facility, ensuring a clean, safe, and nurturing environment. The management upholds strict compliance with Child Rights Law, Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy, Sexual Abuse, Harassment and Exploitation Policy, and Health & Safety Policy for staff, children, visitors, and stakeholders. These policies are periodically reviewed and implemented to maintain a high standard of care and security.

To enhance safety, trained security personnel protect the facility 24/7, working closely with community security teams to ensure a secure environment for the children.

Nutritional Support

Recognizing the critical role of nutrition in child development, Tabitha Home prioritizes providing well-balanced meals throughout the year. The children receive three nutritious meals daily, carefully designed to meet essential dietary needs, along with mid-day snacks.

To support healthy growth and immunity, the children are provided with fresh fruits, vitamins, and cod liver oil, and undergo routine deworming every three months. This comprehensive approach ensures their physical and mental well-being.

Educational Support        

Tabitha Home is committed to quality education for all its beneficiaries, partnering with reputable institutions to support children from nursery to university level.

In November 2024, nine children participated in the General Certificate Examination (GCE) to assess their preparedness for the WAEC exam. The results were released in February and their performance exceeded expectations, demonstrating the effectiveness of the educational support system provided at Tabitha Home.

Tabitha Home Academy (Craft Plus)

The Craft Plus Academy is a specialized program designed to equip children with hands-on skills in arts and crafts, fostering creativity, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance.

Beneficiaries initially created earrings, backpacks, and wallets, but have now expanded their product range to include perfume oils, branded notepads, and other handmade items. These crafts provide valuable vocational training and prepare the children for sustainable livelihoods.

Engineering Club     

In November 2024, Graceville Foundation and SMART Kids Engineer launched a STEM-focused Engineering Club at Tabitha Home, engaging 20 children in a 12-week program aimed at enhancing their technical and problem-solving skills.

Initially planned as a three-month initiative, the program has now been extended to six months to allow children to perfect their skills. During the program review, participants expressed that the club has significantly boosted their creativity, imaginative thinking, and ability to concentrate.

Tabitha Home remains dedicated to providing holistic development opportunities that empower children with education, life skills, and emotional resilience for a brighter future.

COMMUNITY BASED PROJECT

Project Clean Water

Tabitha Home, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 6, provided clean water to its community in Ibadan. Water was supplied three times a week significantly benefiting local residents and improving sanitation. This initiative was highly appreciated by the community.

TABITHA HOME COMMUNITY WOMEN COOPERATIVE INVESTMENT SOCIETY

In January 2025, the Tabitha Home Community Women’s Cooperative held its monthly meeting under the supervision of the Project Coordinator. Established with seven women, the society aims to empower women with entrepreneurial skills and promote a culture of saving and financial independence.

As part of the empowerment initiative, the February meeting focused on assessing each woman’s business activities and identifying areas where Tabitha Home could provide support. Discussions were also held on strategies to strengthen and expand the cooperative, ensuring long-term sustainability and economic growth for its members.

IN-HOUSE PROJECTS

Tabitha Home implements in-house projects to nurture essential life skills, foster creativity, and promote holistic development among its residents.

Reading Culture

Reading is a fundamental tool for learning, personal development, and cognitive growth. At Tabitha Home, the Reading Culture project was introduced as a platform to enhance vocabulary, encourage critical thinking, and foster a lifelong love for books. By engaging in structured reading sessions, the children not only expand their knowledge but also gain essential life skills that will help shape their futures.

In January and February, the Reading Culture sessions were held biweekly, providing an opportunity for the children to immerse themselves in literature. A new book, “Growing Up” by Adekola Adeola, was introduced to guide them through the complexities of adolescence and the transition into adulthood. The book’s introduction sparked meaningful discussions, particularly on the distinction between growing up and simply getting older. One striking example given was that of a 40-year-old man still dependent on his parents, which helped the children understand that maturity is more than just age—it involves responsibility and personal growth.

The children delved into the first two chapters of the book, which explored the physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty in both boys and girls. These discussions provided a safe space for them to ask questions and understand the changes they would experience as they grow older. The book also highlighted the importance of social circles, helping the children recognize how friendships and peer influences can shape their behavior and decision-making.

Another key topic explored was peer pressure—its different types and effective ways to manage it. By discussing real-life scenarios and practical strategies, the children gained insights into how to navigate challenging social situations, make informed choices, and stand by their values.

The Reading Culture project continues to serve as an essential tool for personal and intellectual development. Through engaging books and interactive discussions, the children are learning valuable life lessons while strengthening their reading habits. This initiative not only supports their academic growth but also equips them with the confidence and knowledge needed to make informed decisions as they transition into adulthood.

Pep Talk                                       

At Tabitha Home, monthly reflection sessions held on Fridays provide a safe and open platform for children to share experiences, discuss challenges, and set personal growth goals. These sessions encourage self-expression, foster emotional intelligence, and help build confidence among the children.

In February, the first session created an engaging space where the children freely shared their thoughts on love, crushes, and the origins of Valentine's Day. The discussion allowed them to express their views, curiosities, and personal experiences, while also learning about the historical and cultural significance of Valentine’s Day.

These sessions continue to be valuable opportunities for open dialogue, enabling the children to develop social skills, gain new perspectives, and receive guidance on personal and emotional matters.

Kids Club

Weekly therapeutic sessions using games, music, and art help children build social skills and self-expression. Themes introduced by the children drive activities that are engaging and educational.

Monthly Birthday Celebration

The Monthly Birthday Celebration at Tabitha Home is a treasured tradition, held on the last Sunday of every month throughout 2024. This special occasion is eagerly anticipated by each child, who takes center stage during their birthday month. On this day, they receive special recognition, heartfelt wishes, and warm felicitations from both staff and fellow children, making it a truly memorable and meaningful experience for all.

Movie Nights

The children enjoy movie nights every Friday evening at 7:00 PM. These sessions help them relax after a busy week of academic activities and transition into the weekend

CONCLUSION

Tabitha home continues to stay committed to transforming the lives of young ones, through provision of shelter and supports the development, empowerment and social integration of orphans and vulnerable children who have experienced abuse, lack, dysfunction or any kind of vulnerability ensuring basic needs are provided and their physical and mental health is well catered for.

Tabitha Home’s comprehensive approach to both in-house and community-based projects continues to make a significant impact on the lives of the children it supports. Through initiatives such as the in-house and community based projects, the Monthly Birthday Celebrations, and educational outreach programs, Tabitha Home has successfully fostered personal development, empowerment, and community engagement.

These initiatives reflect Tabitha Home's unwavering commitment to the well-being, education, and empowerment of vulnerable children, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the challenges of life and contribute positively to society. With continued partnerships and support, Tabitha Home remains dedicated to nurturing young minds, promoting self-reliance, and driving lasting change in their communities.