By: Kweku Bolton
Orphanages across Ghana continue to face financial and logistical challenges in providing basic necessities for vulnerable children. Rising Star Home, located in Dodowa, is one such institution caring for children who have been neglected or lost their parents. Recently, the Dora Awua Foundation responded to their appeal with a donation valued at more than two five thousand cedis, bringing significant relief to the home.
The supplies included educational materials, foodstuffs, toiletries, mineral water, soap, clothing, and assorted drinks. According to the Foundation, the initiative was motivated by the pressing needs of orphanages that receive no government subventions and rely heavily on community support.
During the presentation, Dr Dora Awua, a clinical psychologist and head of the Foundation, emphasised the importance of collective responsibility in caring for vulnerable children. She explained that their work is inspired by Christian values of sacrifice and love, adding that such gestures reassure children they are not abandoned, even though they live apart from their parents.
Dr Awua highlighted the link between welfare and mental wellbeing, stressing that children cannot thrive without adequate food, clothing, and shelter. “Sound minds are shaped by access to life’s necessities,” she said. “By meeting these needs, we give young people hope and prepare them to become responsible adults who can contribute to nation-building.”
The Foundation expressed confidence that the donated items would directly benefit the children, while cautioning caregivers against diverting supplies. They warned that withholding donations could cause emotional trauma and reinforce feelings of neglect. Looking ahead, the Foundation urged that children in such homes be enrolled in good schools and provided with parental-style support. They called for environments that function like family units, where children can learn, play, and make everyday decisions experiences that contribute to healthy development.
Outlining its long-term vision, the Foundation hopes that within five to ten years, children at Rising Star Home will excel academically or acquire vocational skills, enabling them to become independent and productive citizens. Ultimately, they aspire for these young people to extend support to other vulnerable children, continuing the cycle of care.
Management of Rising Star Home expressed gratitude for the donation, describing it as a significant source of relief. They confirmed that the home operates privately and receives no government assistance.
Social worker Rebecca explained that children are admitted at varying ages depending on circumstances. Some arrive as newborns sometimes only a day old while others may be several years old. Care is provided by trained caregivers, referred to as “mothers,” who ensure that all basic needs are met.
Rebecca stressed that many children are abandoned despite having living parents, often due to poverty. She urged families not to abandon children but instead to seek help. “Every child is important and deserves to grow within a family,” she said. “If you cannot care for a child, seek support from social welfare rather than abandoning them. That child may one day be the one to care for you.”
Mandan Cicilia Owusu, who was once an orphan, shared her motivation for supporting the initiative. She explained: “I lost my mother and father at a very early age, and growing up was difficult. We had little support and struggled a great deal. On my birthday, I chose to celebrate with children and share the little I have. When I met Dr Dora Awua, I saw her passion for this cause and felt compelled to join hands with her. That has been my motivation.
