Nazareth Centre for Rehabilitation (NCfR) can continue the vital work it does in responding to gender based violence in Bougainville now that it has been granted K3 million from the Australian Government.
The NCfR provides safe houses, counselling, and referrals, working closely with schools, community advocates and churches on prevention programs and awareness raising among local communities throughout AROB.
They also focus on engaging with men and boys to bring about social change and build non-violent communities; a program that has been well received. NCfR Director, Sister Lorraine Garasu said the grant is timely and a great assistance at this point in time.
“This grant will support us in providing safe environments for victims of all forms of violence and at the same time, sustain counselling and healing programs, to promote peace in the communities.”
The grant will also assist to implement the NCfR Community Strengthening Strategy over the next three years, which will pave the way forward for greater collaboration between NCfR and network partners to address social issues and creating pathways for non-violent communities.
This will sustain the services offered through the centre and will assist the organisation in expanding its geographic and demographic footprint and having a broader, more sustainable presence in AROB.
Dr Fiona Crockford, First Secretary, Australian Development Assistance, congratulated NCfR and commended the organisation for their services to community-based peacebuilding and conflict resolution, including social resilience and counselling services to benefit Bougainville women, men, youth and children.
Australia is committed to the implementation of the Bougainville Peace Agreement and supports the engagement of local organisations to participate in the peace process.