NOPCAN faces uncertain future

Since its inception in 1992, the National Organization for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect has been the nation’s most forceful advocate for the well-being of the our youngest citizens. Eleven years later, that voice is about to go silent unless there is some serious infusion of cash to keep its programmes running. According to NOPCAN’s Chairman of the Board, Andrew Kelly, a final decision has not been made to close down the advocacy organisation, but that crucial vote could come as early as Monday. Kelly says that a special meeting of the Board has been called to apprise members of the financial situation and to discuss the way forward. NOPCAN has been forced to close its offices in Corozal and Punta Gorda, although the staffs have agreed to continue their outreach work until the financial situation is stabilized. Kelly says NOPCAN’s financial woes are made worse by an ever-decreasing level of support from international agencies that have themselves experienced budget cuts.