The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter CONTINUING to show their support through charitable efforts, members of the US-based Christian non-profit organisation Bahamas Habitat are well on their way to completing construction of a home for abused children in Eleuthera. The construction of the "Zion Children's Home" on Current Island started in the fall of 2010. The project came about after two sisters, Earmily Munroe and Geleta Turnquest, said a vision from God told them to help many abused children. Abraham "Abe" McIntyre, Bahamas Methodist Habitat director, told Tribune Religion: " They had just re-build their church (Zion Methodist) in Eleuthera and when they were done, they all had a prayer meeting that led to their vision from God, of building a children's home." With support from Bahamas Habitat donors and local church and government officials, the dream of the home is becoming a reality. Mr McIntyre said the first structure is 90 per cent complete and the second is 60 percent complete. "We really don't know when it will all be completed but we are hoping for Spring 2012. Part of the hold up is just waiting on the funding grant from the Ministry of Social Development," said Mr McIntyre. After receiving countless donations from local donors, Mr McIntyre said the feeling is incredible. "We have gotten help from the Men of Faith group in Central Eleuthera, made up of local contractors and business men. "We just received a large donation of $50,000 from an anonymous Bahamian donor. It is incredible to have that kind of partnership. "Many hands make light work and it is amazing to see the outpouring for this children's home." Through their partnership with the Bahamas Methodist Habitat (BMH) operating out of James Cistern, Eleuthera, the organisation recently hosted their semi-annual Fly In and Help Out Event that provided hands on experience with ongoing projects in the Bahamas. The excitement surrounding the completion the children's home brought about 40 people out to help. Volunteer pilots transported supplies and others worked on the buildings themselves, which will provide care and safety for 16 abused or orphaned children. "That was more of a exploratory trip. We took some donated goods that will be for the Zion home. We were able to see the progress and some of the donors who have been supporting the home," Mr McIntyre said. Organisers said with the children's home in the final stages and the grand opening approaching, it's not too late to get involved. "Supplies are still needed to furnish the kitchen. A gift registry was set up at Bed Bath and Beyond using the first name, Zion and last name, Children with instructions on how to ship the purchased items directly to a Bahamas Habitat Florida hub for transport during the upcoming Fly-In and Help Out Event," he said.