Train Workers Caring for Orphans in Togo

Thank you for supporting training for child welfare workers in Togo. The caregiver training helps workers recognize and respond to emtional trauma in the children under their care.

Dr. Lyn Westman, the Mental Health Program Consultant for Tributaries International and Mercy Ships, emphasized the critical need for caregiver training. Dr. Westman says that a holistic approach must include caregiver training to improve the lives of orphans. 

"If you heal trauma in the children, but don't alter the modeling and care provided by orphanage workers, you have only addressed past trauma, and may miss current trauma." Dr. Westman explains, "Many of these workers have good intentions for child care, but unhealthy cultural practices and behavior learned from their own parents may contribute to inadequate nurturing. In almost every training for service providers, a few participants state that as a result of the training, they will no longer beat their children." 

Pastor Samuel Kpavouvou and his team at Graceland Christian Network will train workers at ten orphanages in holistic care, child development, child abuse, common mental illnesses, grief and emotional trauma, basic hygiene and first aid. Training can begin once funds are raised for transportation, books, and other materials.

Pastor Samuel is certified as a Master facilitator for adults and children through the Mercy Ships Mental Health Program, and also through the American Bible Society Trauma Healing Institute. He has provided training to church and community leaders in Togo and other West African nations.

Links:

• Tributaries International Web Site
• Find us on Facebook