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programme > overview
Mercy Ministries exists to see young women reach their full potential through participation
in a structured, residential programme. The programme is open to women aged 16 – 28 years,
and consists of the following three phases:
1. Preparation/Application
An application to the Mercy Ministries residential programme
must be initiated by the young woman herself, as the success of this programme relies on
the personal choice of the applicant who must demonstrate a sincere desire for change.
Applications are reviewed by the Intake Co–ordinator who conducts an in–depth interview
and presents the application to the intake committee. Successful applicants are supported
through fortnightly contact with the Intake Co-coordinator until a place becomes available,
and are supplied with books, CDs, and other resources to help the individual prepare for
the residential programme.
2. Residential Programme
The young woman lives on–site in the MMNZ home for approximately
six months, and has a structured daily routine tailored to the issues she is working
through. She is actively supported by professionals including the programme staff, dietician
and counsellor, and an international curriculum has been established which encompasses career
advice, and communication and creative skills development as well as practical skills such
as cooking, cleaning, budgeting. Each young woman participates in the daily running of the
home, and is involved in team and community building activities. Every young woman receives
counselling based on Christian principles.
3. After Care
Every young woman is supported by a MMNZ mentor who provides support for them
in their community for 12 months following their graduation from the residential programme.
Key Programme Components
Counselling
The programme participants attend an hour of individual counselling as well as
two hours of group counselling each week. The young women address their personal issues as
well as gaining essential building blocks necessary developing healthy and honest relationships.
In counselling, whether it is individual or with a group, the goal remains the same: to equip
each young woman with the necessary tools to lead a successful life.
Education
Each Mercy Ministries home operates a structured teaching programme, which focuses
on nurturing the following areas:
> Personal Development
> Life Skills Education
> Communication & Conflict Resolution
> Budgeting
Recreation
The young women participate in recreation every afternoon; activities include
attending the gym, general sports, bush walks, shopping and community service.
Household Duties
Programme participants are practically involved in the range of activities
associated with running a residential home. This includes undertaking supervised meal
preparation and cleaning duties.
Graduation
At Mercy Ministries, we celebrate the culmination of months of hard work, commitment
to change and the renewal of hope and a future during our graduation ceremonies. The young women
share this with staff, family and friends as they look forward to the promise of a bright future.
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