Before the implementation of this building project, the registered children were uncomfortable in a crowded environment, which negatively affected their ability to learn. The lack of toilet facilities caused children to use the bushes to relieve themselves.

Construction work included a new six-unit classroom building, an office space for child development workers and toilet facilities. Girls and boys now have access to their own three-unit toilet facilities, urinals for the boys, and sinks for hand washing.

The child development workers observed that the children now have more space for learning and recreational activities. With the provision of these facilities, the children are using their time to engage in activities that will contribute to their cognitive and physical growth. The children are relieved from the congested room that made them easily fatigued. Child development will be greatly enhanced because, with the availability of the new classrooms, the children now have spacious room for their club activities such as choreography, drama and singing.

Several registered children interviewed noted that they are able to concentrate better from the fresh air and the lack of noise disturbances. They appreciate the amount of space they have been given as it helps them feel comfortable when learning and socializing with other children. The project has also boosted the morale of the volunteer teachers and the child development workers, one of whom said, “It has made our work easier because we now have much bigger office space for our work.” The main beneficiaries of this construction are the 255 registered children at the centre. The staff have also benefitted from their participation in selecting the project contractor, a process that inspired confidence as they learned the practice of bidding. This experience will help them to run similar projects efficiently in the future.

The church is also planning to use the new classroom facilities as a school, which will offer an educational opportunity for up to 180 children in the community. The church’s pastor explained that the intervention will help the church to connect more children within the community to Christ. He added that Sunday school attendance has increased as a result of the construction

“Because we have enough space, we can now learn without any disturbances.”

One of the registered children, Prince Allotey, said, “It is good for us to have this classroom block for our Saturday meetings. Because we have enough space, we can now learn without any disturbances.”

The Anyaa chief thanked the church for making good use of the land. He said this structure is going to help the community release children from spiritual, economic, social and physical poverty.

Church members recognize the impact this building project has made on their community, enhancing the relationship between the church and the community.

A member of the community expressed satisfaction as a result of this activity. It will go a long way to help the children in the community who come to the centre to learn. He commented, “Thanks to the management of Compassion and donors for such a great project. It will go a long way to help the centre and will also enhance the image of the church and Compassion in the Anyaa community.”

Among the children, workers at the centre, church and community members, their message to donors is the same: Thank you and may God richly bless you.