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Guam
Alee Shelter |
Catholic Social Services uses the word "Alee," a nautical term meaning "shelter from the storm," to name the two shelters they operate: the Alee shelter to protect children from the "storm" of abuse or neglect; and the Alee Shelter to protect persons affected by the "storm" of domestic abuse/violence. Operational since 1993, the Alee Children's Shelter provides safety and refuge for children affected by child abuse or neglect in the form of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse; failure to receive adequate food and nurturance; or exposure to a life-threatening situation. Children are placed at the shelter only under the authority of Child Protective Services (CPS). In an effort to interrupt the cycle of the child's learning pattern of violence and to promote healthy personality development, shelter staff teach alternative ways of expressing anger or displeasure other than hitting or destroying property. The Shelter also makes available therapeutic play; positive adult role models; and the opportunity to learn good housekeeping, hygienic health care, nutrition, parenting, and stress management skills. Staff assesses the children's development and encourages play activities designed to promote acquisition of age-appropriate physical and cognitive skills. Better communication skills, building self esteem, and enhancing knowledge of self-worth help the youth to improve their interpersonal relationships. During fiscal year 2001-2002, the Alee Shelter for Children served 58 children representing a wide range of ethnic backgrounds. Alee networks with Public Health, Superior Court/Client Services, the Guam Police Department, the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Guam Memorial Hospital, Erica's House, Navy Family Services, and CPS. The Family Violence Shelter, which was opened in 1981, is the only shelter on Guam specifically designed for the protection of persons affected by domestic abuse/violence. Adult females, with or without children, who have been abused by a spouse, intimate partner, or other individual as a result of family disturbance, are admitted upon referral or self-referral on a voluntary basis. The Shelter also serves as a safe refuge for victims of rape and other sexual assault.