Service members complete renovation of center for disabled youth

Photo By 1st Lt. David Herndon | Distinguished guests of the Mahe Island Rehabilitation Center for Handicapped Children dedication ceremony stand together after the re-opening of a sewing center, Nov. 13. The renovation project partnered Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, U.S. State Department and Seychelles Ministry of Health personnel for nearly six months. The center serves the entire nation of Seychelles and currently provides services to approximately 200 children.  

11.18.2007

Story by 1st Lt. David Herndon 

Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa

By 1st Lt. David Herndon
Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa Public Affairs

MAHE ISLAND, Seychelles — Service members from Combined Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa and Seychellois leaders put the finishing touches on a rehabilitation center for children with disabilities by holding a dedication ceremony for the completed renovation project on the Island of Mahe, Seychelles, Nov.13.

The dedication celebrated the more than 15 major upgrades made to a sewing center, which serves the entire nation of Seychelles and currently provides services to nearly 200 children with disabilities.

"The completion of this project is an example of the ongoing U.S. commitment to assist the Seychellois and improve the infrastructure in the Republic of Seychelles," said Navy Cmdr. Bill Revak, CJTF-HOA country coordinator. "The projects and opportunities not only present strong ties that exist between our two nations, but they also demonstrate the continued relationship that exists between the U.S. and Seychelles. The American people are proud to be able to support these types of projects."

The project teamed CJTF-HOA, the U.S. State Department, Seychelles Ministry of Health and Social Development, and Allied Builders for approximately three months. Nearly 25 young women who are trainees at the sewing center were gracious of the combined effort.

"I'd like to extend my sincere and profound gratitude to the U.S. and Seychelles governments for the kind assistance in renovating our workshop," said Lucinda Fondemiere, Rehabilitation Center trainee. "The building now provides an ideal environment and working atmosphere."

Renovations to the center included repairs and upgrades such as improved lighting, enhanced plumbing fixtures, restoration of restrooms, sidewalks, classrooms and construction of a ramp for wheelchair access.

"After today, more than 20 trainees from across the island will be benefitting from the sewing workshop facility," said Anne Lafortune, Seychelles Ministry of Health and Social Development principal secretary.

According to U.S. Navy Capt. Douglas Young, CJTF-HOA comptroller and dedication guest speaker, the unified action to renovate the facility will provide great opportunities for Seychellois youth with disabilities and ultimately enhancing their lives.

"The quality of life for the children of this area is going to be vastly improved by this center and the small piece of it that we dedicated," said Young. "They'll be more productive, they'll strengthen their community, and in doing so, they'll strengthen Seychelles."

Civil military operations, like the sewing center dedication, are ways in which CJTF-HOA aims to prevent conflict, promote regional stability and protect coalition interests. The command philosophy of the task force is to empower nations to create and maintain stable and secure environments where education and prosperity are within every individual's grasp, a concept Young feels is currently being executed in Seychelles, ultimately building invaluable relationships.

"Part of the reason why we do what we do is to help the people of Seychelles better help themselves," said Young. "Projects like this help deepen the understanding between the Seychellois and Americans. We look forward to strengthening our relationship with the Seychellois. I hope that this friendship will continue to grow."

• Date Taken: 11.18.2007
• Date Posted: 11.18.2007 13:55
• Story ID: 13996