Money from Margit and Kjeld's foundation brings joy to Barnets Blå Hus
A donation of 10,000 kroner from Fonden Sol og Strand by Margit and Kjeld makes it possible for Barnets Blå Hus Vesthimmerland to celebrate its eighth birthday.
The idea is to hold a concert in the garden on August 14 and in connection with that offer cake, coffee, and soda.
– We are very grateful for this donation, which will be used to provide children and families with a good experience and the opportunity to engage in a community with others who are in a similar situation, says Ole Smed, who is the leader of Barnets Blå Hus in Vesthimmerland.
Barnets Blå Hus Vesthimmerland is a support service for children and young people growing up in families with alcohol or substance abuse.
– Our task is to support the children in their lives, in their process with parents who are struggling with addiction. We also support the parents in becoming more qualified caregivers for their children, says Ole Smed.
Barnets Blå Hus, which is funded by grants from the Social Authority and collected funds, employs three paid therapists and has around 25 volunteers associated with it.
Currently, 32 children and young people regularly visit the house on Vølundsvej, and it is very important that there is a place like Barnets Hus, believes Ole Smed.
– We place great emphasis on making people feel welcome when they come here. We meet those who come here with decency and respect, and thus they experience that they do not need to take a defensive position but can feel safe in the relationship, says Ole Smed.
About two-thirds of the children and young people who come to the house have been referred by a municipal employee, while the others have found the service themselves.
Barnets Blå Hus Vesthimmerland has a baby café aimed at vulnerable and at-risk parents, who have the opportunity to come to the café and engage in a non-binding community. The baby café operates in close collaboration with the region's midwives and municipal nurses.
– For some, it can be difficult to join a regular mothers' group, but here they can come and participate to the extent they can, and it has proven to be a relevant offer for many, says Ole Smed, who looks forward to August when Barnets Blå Hus celebrates its eighth birthday together with families and staff.