The Salvation Army opened the Patvērums Childrens Day Centre in March 2002 to provide a safe environment for underprivileged children from the local community in Riga.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Going official!
It's hard to know where to start with this blog entry as there's lots to say but it's how to say it, so forgive me if it doesn't make complete sense!
Basically this summer it was discovered there is money available from the Latvian State to help run The Salvation Army's (TSA) social centres but that we all have to become 'official' centres. For the past 4 years Patverums although known by social services, the polices, schools etc we have working as an NGO not an officially recognised social service provide. So last month together with Ilga, TSA social services director, we've started the process!
So why am I write about this!? Well, it is something that Graeme and I both wanted to see happen at some point in the future of Patverums but it's a bit strange that it's finally happening. Also it could be that we are the first day centre in Riga to become official that has a kitchen! Not a bad achievement!
But to be honest we are all a bit nervous about the process as it does require a lot of inspections by different state organisations, which will almost definitely lead to making some changes to how we work, not our program but for example, how the kitchen is run, our laundry facilities may need adjusting etc etc. It's all a bit unknown at the moment and that might be part of the problem. We have all heard horror stories of inspectors coming in being inconsistent and sometimes demanding unreasonable requirements.
So I'd just ask that you'd keep us in your prayers as there is a great deal of work to do for us all as a staff, for me that I lead the staff well and keep on top of what needs to be done. For Inese as I am relying a lot on her because of my Latvian and for Irena (our cook) as she will face a lot of the changes and her workload will increase.
Thanks and I'll keep you posted!!
posted by Patverums Childrens Day Centre @ 10:39 am
I'll be praying for you and your fire inspection today! Thanks for the hospitality this week.