Care home for vulnerable children appeals for funds

A CARE home for abandoned and vulnerable children is struggling with mounting operational expenses.

BRDB Rotary Children’s Residence (BRCR) in Seri Kembangan, Selangor, provides shelter, food and classes for approximately 65 children aged between three and 16 years old.

BRCR exco chairman Datuk Chan Kam Fatt, in appealing for aid, said it was increasingly difficult to cover the running cost of the home, which is about RM80,000 per month.

This figure includes rent, utilities and basic medical care for the children.

“I am worried about paying the bills and rent as well as the salaries of our 18 workers and teachers,” said Chan.

Teachers with degrees are hired to help teach the children and receive a salary as well as allowances for food and transport, especially for those who travel long distances to the shelter.

“Sometimes, we may need to compensate the teachers or employees for overtime claims, particularly when they accompany the children to the hospital during a medical emergency,” he said.

Chan also recalled that when one of the children suffered a severe injury to her elbow, the surgery cost around RM6,000.

“Our insurance for each child covers up to RM2,000 only, which means we have to personally cover RM4,000 for the child’s surgery,” he said.

Chan urges those wishing to provide aid, to visit the shelter to get a clearer picture.

He added that there were children with medical conditions such as asthma at the shelter, and they required proper care.

BRCR also needs to build quarantine rooms to properly care for children who fall ill, said Chan.

“Children’s illnesses can spread rapidly, especially when they have fever, flu and cough,” he said.

The quarantine rooms will also be used to keep children who have contracted lice, away from their school peers.

Chan said the shelter wanted additional rooms as well to conduct life skills classes.

“The children at BRCR are taught life skills like cooking, baking, tailoring and gardening.

“We plan to build three project rooms for them to be taught these essential skills,” he said.

Although the shelter receive some government aid, the facility established in 2016 mostly relies on public contributions.

“If anyone is willing and able to assist us, I encourage them to visit the home to gain a clearer insight into how they can aid the children.

“There are various ways to offer support and it ultimately depends on the individual,” he added.

Even in the face of challenges, Chan remains dedicated to ensuring a comfortable and nurturing environment for the children.

Those interested in helping the home financially can call BRCR at 03-8958 5151.