Unable to use child centred facility to full capacity
AS the CARI organisation turned 21 this month, the milestone was marked with the securing of the key to the door of a new, state-of-the-art premises. Minister for Health Mary Harney was present for the unveiling of the Ennis Road house, where CARI will continue to help children to heal the hurt of child sexual abuse.
To begin proceedings, girls from Kileely dance troop Flawless provided a show stopping, upbeat performance, mastering numerous skilful moves and routines.
Under the motto of ‘Shining a Light for Children’, the Limerick branch of CARI was established in Garryowen in 1994 by Eileen Prendiville and other local volunteers.
After 15 years, they have now secured a much improved centre, largely thanks to the 2005 JP McManus Pro-Am.
However, the organisation continues to struggle with funding and is hoping for an increase in statutory income.
“We are in the unfortunate position of having a superb child centred facility which we are unable to use to full capacity,” said CARI CEO Mary Flaherty.
“Indeed, we have had to reduce staff since the centre opened. We are hoping to attract statutory and further voluntary support to maximise the use of this wonderful place”.
Minister Harney admitted that the “State is playing catch-up on deficits in providing services to children”.
She added that the new facility would “preserve the privacy and dignity” of those availing of the service.
The Limerick Post discovered a homely, brightly coloured house filled with welcoming rooms decked out with comfortable furniture and various toys and art supplies where children take part in play therapy.
The former B&B was furnished through the generosity of Instore, while the six play therapy rooms were equipped with funding from the Saffron Ball.
Majella Ryan, head of therapy, said that the beautifully mosaics adorning the inside walls of the house were created in Limerick Prison art classes and were donated to the house.
“Children embrace healing when they are given the right conditions,” said Ms. Ryan.
“This facility offers a space that looks and feels good. A safe, child-friendly space to reveal things through play and creativity.
“We want to emphasise that children are not defined by abuse, but should be encouraged through creativity and individuality”.
National director of CARI Niall Muldoon said that each year over 2000 new allegations of child sex abuse are received by the HSE.
“Where allegations are upheld there are precious few specialised services available to the children affected.
“Each HSE region has a specialised service available for adults abused in childhood, but no such network is available for children.
“CARI is campaigning for such a universal service to ensure we do not fail this generation of children”.
Minister for Health Mary Harney T.D with the Help of Lauren Carey cuts the Ribbon to Officially open CARI Building on the Ennis Road Limerick.
