At approximately 11:40 AM today, our office received a letter addressed to the Minister of Health, Wellness and Social Services, highlighting serious allegations of abuse experienced by a resident at CHANCES, a facility dedicated to the care and protection of vulnerable children in Dominica. It should be noted that the letter had been in the public domain for hours prior to it having been received by any government offices.

We take these allegations very seriously. Such matters go against the very essence and mission of CHANCES, which serves as a shelter and support system for children who have faced abuse and abandonment. As a Ministry we, understand the immense vulnerability of children, and it is our responsibility to ensure their safety and well-being.

CHANCES was officially opened in 2009. It is strategically located in Jimmit and provides a secure environment designed to help children heal and thrive. With the capacity to accommodate up to thirty children aged from birth to 18 years, CHANCES plays a pivotal role in offering a protective haven for those in need.

The facility is committed to delivering key services, including:

• Comprehensive Care: Providing a safe and nurturing environment that ensures the physical and emotional well-being of each child.

• Short-Term Shelter: Offering temporary accommodations that allow children to remain at CHANCES for up to six months while efforts are made to find long-term solutions for their care.

• Emotional and Psychological Support: Delivering essential counseling and psychological services aimed at facilitating recovery from traumatic experiences.

• Educational and Recreational Activities: Engaging children in educational support and recreational activities to foster their overall development.

We wish to assure the public that we are initiating a thorough independent investigation into these allegations, as the safety of this individual, and the welfare of all children currently at CHANCES and prospective children are our top priorities. We remain committed to upholding the highest standards of care and will take all necessary actions to ensure that CHANCES truly lives up to its mission of being a protective and supportive haven.

For any further inquiries, please contact our office directly at 2663080.

The statement is attached below: