PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Community Help Desk (CHD) in Dutch Quarter is now registering youngsters, after the launching of the DQ Youth Connection Program last week. The focus will be on linking community residents, focusing more on youths, with existing (social) educational programs.
These educational programs are besides the regular assistance and empowerment session that the Community Help Desk offers.
Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor, Cornelius de Weever, praised the efforts of the team that worked hard to put the program together and urged the community to use the CHD.
"I want to encourage in particular the youth of Dutch quarter to come out and use the program, get informed, and take advantage of what is being offered...It is up to you."
Moreover, the Minister is pleased with the concept of referring persons, willing to pursue an education, with one of the educational programs that are linked to the Youth Connection Program.
In addition, youngsters can currently enroll in the Young Ambassadors Program. The door to door transportation service is available for the Elderly and Disabled.
Community officers are out in the community providing assistance to those that are in need of such and to gather information from the community residence in order to assess their needs.
Aida Holaman, Head of Community Development, Family and Humanitarian Affairs, re-iterated that the program is a collaborative effort, using different research methodology based on the wants and needs of the community.
As such, she thanks those persons who worked in close collaboration with the department in getting this program going, and making such a reality.
She further emphasize the importance of the community of Dutch Quarter and elsewhere to make good use of the Youth Connection Program, as well as the other empowerment programs and all other services, provided at the Community Help Desk by the various stakeholders.
There are various information brochures and pamphlets on parenting, breast cancer, sexuality, breast feeding, sexually transmitted diseases, among other things—all information meant to expand the knowledge and build the capacity of the residents.
For more information, please visit a Community Help Desk in your area or call 542-1122 or 542-9925.
