The Eight Dimensions of Care represent a comprehensive approach aimed at ensuring that all the needs of children and youth who lack or are at risk of losing parental care are met. Through these dimensions, we provide sustainable support and care that promotes their growth and prepares them for independence in the future.
What are the Eight Dimensions of Care?
1. Basic Care: The cornerstone of emotional and social stability for children
This goes beyond meeting physical needs to include providing a safe environment that fosters emotional growth and healthy social interaction. Meeting daily needs such as personal hygiene, appropriate clothing, healthy meals, academic support, healthcare, and recreational activities helps enhance the child's sense of stability and comfort.
When Ahmed came to live in a family house within the village, he started receiving comprehensive services. Over time, he became more accepting of his surroundings, felt secure, and began interacting with others, benefiting from both psychological and social support.
2. Housing: A place that fosters belonging
A house is not just a place to live but a space that restores a sense of belonging and comfort. We provide children with a family-like environment where they live with an alternative mother and siblings in a setting filled with warmth and love.
When Salma moved to a family house in SOS Children’s Villages, she initially struggled to adapt. Over time, the family-like atmosphere helped her feel supported and cared for, restoring her sense of belonging to a real family.
3. Food Security: The foundation of health and well-being
We ensure balanced meals for children to support their physical and mental development. We also educate children and caregivers about the importance of healthy nutrition to sustain positive habits throughout their lives.
In a healthy cooking workshop, children learned how to prepare nutritious meals independently. This was not just a recreational activity but a step toward preparing them for future independence.
4. Physical Health: A solid foundation for growth and development
Physical health is not just a medical aspect but the basis for children’s mental and social growth. Recognizing that health challenges can hinder education and emotional stability, we prioritize physical health in all our programs.
When Kareem needed urgent medical intervention, we provided appropriate treatment and followed up after his discharge to ensure his full recovery and reintegration into his normal life.
5. Education and Skills: The key to success and independence
Education opens doors to the future. We support children academically by enrolling them in schools and tracking their progress, while also addressing educational caused by educational wastage. Beyond formal education, we enhance children’s skills through extracurricular activities that develop their abilities.
Leila had experienced educational wastage before joining an SOS family house. Through an education recovery program, she received full support from specialized tutors, enabling her to catch up and excel in school alongside her peers.
6. Livelihood: Empowering children to build a bright future
We focus on empowering children by developing their skills early on, preparing them for independence for the future through continuous guidance and capacity building. Training programs and workshops help them discover their talents and passions, equipping them with the tools they need to achieve their goals.
Zaid, who discovered a passion for robotics through our Innovation Lab, began building prototypes and programming robots. We continue to support him in developing his talent.
7. Emotional and Social Well-being: Healing hearts and building confidence
Children who have experienced trauma need a supportive environment to rebuild their self-confidence and overcome challenges. We continuously monitor their psychological, emotional, and social well-being through regular individual sessions with specialists.
Sara, initially shy in social settings, began to feel safe thanks to specialist support. She opened up about her fears, built healthy relationships, and started adapting positively to her new surroundings.
8. Protection and Community Integration: Building a safe and inclusive world
Ensuring children’s protection and integration into society requires collective efforts through ongoing education and addressing the challenges they face.
Our Child Protection team develops safe spaces and supportive facilities in the villages, using innovative methods like interactive activities that teach children how to handle abuse and express themselves confidently.
Additionally, the team launched a child-friendly video titled "How to Protect Myself?" for children aged 4 to 12, raising awareness of protection measures.
Our Shared Message: Together for a Bright Future for Children and Youth
Together, we can ensure that every child and young person has a fair chance to build a dignified and independent life.
How You Can Help:
- Donate: Your investment in a child today means a brighter future.
- Volunteer: Join the journey of changing children’s lives for the better.
- Raise Awareness: Share our message to expand the positive impact.