This video is presented by Better Care Network and UNICEF. It tells the story of Maureen, a young girl in Kenya who was separated from her family and sent to live in a children's home. In the video, Maureen expresses her desire to reunite with her grandparents and asks "why do I live in a children's home?" The video also features interviews with experts, including those who have lived in children's homes, explaining some of the negative impacts of institutionalization. Children who live in institutions, say the experts, often lack the individual care, affection, and attachment that a family environment offers. The video also highlights the efforts of care reform initiatives to deinstitutionalize children in Kenya. As a result of such efforts, Maureen and her siblings are able to return to the home of their grandparents, who will receive the support necessary to care for their grandchildren through a government cash transfer program for orphans and vulnerable children, supported by UNICEF. "It's like I needed something and got it finally," says Maureen.
Other videos in this series include:
- We All Need Families at the End of the Day
- We All Need Families at the End of the Day - Special Care
- We All Need Families at the End of the Day: Care Leavers