With the aim of preventing the increasing menace of sexual violence and abuse among unsuspecting perpetrators, Serene Early-Trobb Concepts sensitized children and teenagers in orphanage homes in Lagos State, to equip them with relevant knowledge on how to keep safe.
In its recent visit to the Hope At Last Orphanage Home in Ayobo, Alimosho Local Government Area of the state, the group spoke to the children and teenagers on body safety, mental health awareness, and gender-based violence.
In a statement by the Convener, Ms. Rhoda Olorunfemi, shared that the outreach to the Orphanage home was basically to sensitize the children because “most of them might be having difficult times, and because they may not understand how to express themselves or who to confide in, some of them might be experiencing mental health challenges like depression, anxiety and many more.”
Olorunfemi explained that, as a mental health advocate, who have met with lots of children and teenagers in the course of her work have seen several young persons who are unaware that they are experiencing depression or anxiety, and other forms of mental and emotional challenges.
“Abuse especially sexual violence and rape are some of the societal menaces the younger generation is facing, this is why the Serene Concepts is enlightening children and teenagers on body safety and rape prevention as well as how to find help,” Olorunfemi added.
She also shared that the group started enlightening children and teenagers at orphanage homes since the inception of its ‘Zero Hunger’ Project in 2019 where they are taught about preventing abuse, body safety, and how to report violations to trusted adults.
“Our first campaign started at Ancient of Days Orphanage and Widowhood Foundation, Little Saints Orphanage Home, etc. We do not forget that abuse is everywhere and it is usually perpetrated by least expected people,” she added.
The visit also witnessed training sessions on menstruation management, general hygiene practices, and how to build resilience against period poverty for girls, while boys were also taught on how to look after themselves and practice safe hygiene.
Serene-Concepts with support from Documents Our History Podcast and Royal Sentinels Initiative donated food items, sanitary pads, beverages, and exercise books, among others, to the orphanage.
The group appeals for support and donations to its cause through its Polaris Bank Account details: 3081882056.