The Tribune

THE Bahamas Methodist Church has expressed concern over the continuing increase in child abuse cases around the country.

Dedicating a new home for children on Current Island, Eleuthera, Bahamas Conference of the Methodist Church president Rev Christopher Neely said the facility was envisioned by the women of that community, who wanted to show their compassion for children who have been abused or neglected.

“The end result of Zion Children’s Home is a joint venture between the Bahamas Conference of the Methodist Church, the United Methodist Church (USA), corporate partners, and the Bahamian people,” Rev Neely said.

The home features two cottages that can house up to eight children each, facilities to house parents, along with the other necessary modern amenities.

Rev Neely noted that there is an “urgent need” for Zion Children’s Home as communities continue to experience increasing levels of child abuse and neglect.

In many cases available homes in Nassau have space limitations, and on the island of Eleuthera, Zion Children’s Home will be the first of its kind.

“The home will offer these children a safe sanctuary where they can experience love and acceptance and be nurtured in healthy lifestyles,” the Methodist Church said in a statement.

Prime Minister Perry Christie along with representatives from the Ministry of Social Services and Development, the MP for the area and friends from the United Methodist Church, joined the Bahamas Conference of the Methodist Church’s leadership in the opening ceremony held at the home on June 23.