FOREWARD

Global evidence indicates that Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) have different needs and challenges which depend on their ages, gender, health status and family environment. OVCs must be provided with a comprehensive package of services to support them and encourage their development into mentally stable and economically viable adults. The Ministry of Youth and Social Development recognizes that a referral network is a fundamental component of any multi-sectoral and integrated services delivery system because no single organization or service provider can provide the comprehensive services required to address the multiple issues affecting OVC and their families.

It is in this respect that Lagos State Government under the distinguished leadership of Mr Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has developed OVC Service Providers Referral Directory to provide a timely referral of children to necessary services within and between different sectors (e.g. Health, Education, Social Services) to effectively prevent and respond to the multiple vulnerabilities faced by OVC and their families.

The contribution of the Association for Reproductive and Family Health (ARFH-ICHSSA II) in partnership with Project Hope and FHI360 with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and participation of all stakeholders in the process of developing this document is recognized.

The Directory should be seen as a guide which focuses at reducing children’s vulnerability, minimising delays and unnecessary interaction. Hence, providing direct access and linkage to OVC services while improving the well-being of Orphans and Vulnerable children.

Thank you.

Olusegun Dawodu
Honourable Commissioner
Ministry of Youth and Social Development

Kindly download the OVC Referral Directory using the link below:

OVC Referral Directory-ICHSSA-2 Project, ARFH- https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-xV39d4LuNUt1fFD7RXPcNT9Z0hl_z4-/view?usp=sharing