The Blossom project in Vanuatu enhances the wellbeing of women and girls by addressing issues such as domestic violence, sexual abuse and teenage pregnancy. Partnering with church leaders, students, community members and government the ADRA team is using the Family Life Education approach. This involves openly discussing gender norms, the roles of family members and new ways for men to take on “non-traditional” roles in the household while allowing women to participate in leadership.
The project has expanded to include a local radio program providing community education and the Elang Family Support Services Centre which provides support services like counselling.
Vanuatu is one of many countries where ADRA is helping to improve the health and wellbeing of communities. We have ongoing health projects that have been developed in collaboration with trusted partners and communities to build healthier lives. Examples of ADRA health project activities include:
As part of ADRA’s Blossom Project in Vanuatu, the Family Life Education program helps rehabilitate those that have been sent to prison. These iniatives aim to address and correct offenders’ behaviors, enabling them to become productive members of society without re-offending once they have served their sentence.
“Through the Family Life Education program, I was able to understand how my wife felt when I hurt her,” said Bob, after going through the Family Life Education training carried out for the inmates at the Low Risk Prison Centre. “If I had gone through such a program before I would have understood my wife better and I would not be here. I will walk out of this place a changed man.”
After the program, the group of male inmates requested sewing training so they can sew their torn clothes, sew themselves new island shirts, and also assist their wives to earn an income for the family, when they are released.
“I never dreamt that one day I would be able to sew. I’ve never even gotten my hands on a sewing machine before. But now I’ve almost completed my island shirt and I’m so excited,” said Bob.
