NETA Ministries brings hope to Annie Dawson Home for Children

On Labour Day, NETA (New Ebenezer Tabernacle Apostolic) Ministries joined hands with donors, corporate partners, and volunteers to support the Annie Dawson Home for Children, a privately operated residential facility for girls.

NETA Ministries organised a Labour Day project focused on painting sections of the new facility and preparing the site for further renovations. These efforts were guided by the needs outlined by the home’s relocation coordinator, Nicholas Bogle, and made possible through an outpouring of community support. In total, the initiative mobilised over $500,000 in in-kind contributions.

“For us service is at the heart of who we are,” said Bishop Damian Ffriend, presiding prelate of NETA Ministries. “We believe that the Church must be present in both word and action, and our support for the Annie Dawson Home reflects that commitment. It was a blessing to witness so many come together in unity, not just to paint walls, but to build hope.”

NOT ALONE

Ivaline Nickie, founder and executive director of the Annie Dawson Home, in expressing her gratitude, said, “This journey has not been easy, but Labour Day reminded us that we’re not alone. The kindness shown by NETA Ministries and everyone who contributed has lifted our spirits and moved us one step closer to our goal.”

“NETA Ministries adopted the Annie Dawson Home for Children in 2024 as part of ongoing mission to support vulnerable youths through intentional outreach and service,” Bishop Ffriend said. “Since then, we have maintained a strong relationship with the Home and have committed to walking alongside them in both spiritual and practical ways.”

In May, the Home began the process of relocating to a new facility, a move urgently needed to ensure that the girls are in a more secure and comfortable environment. However, the new space required significant upgrades to become fully habitable.

“NETA Ministries is committed to maintaining this partnership and encourages other businesses and individuals to support the Annie Dawson Home for Children,” Ffriend said. “There is still a long way to go, and together, we can help them reach the finish line.”

The key partners of the NETA Ministries Labour Day initiative included Road Runners Limited, Image Plus Consultants Limited, Omega Manufacturing Company Limited, Matalon Homes, and Chicken and Tings.

“Additionally, many individual donors came forward with generous contributions and hands-on support, demonstrating a true sense of community spirit and shared purpose,” Ffriend informed.

Annie Dawson Home for Children was founded in 2013 by Nickie. “The home has long provided love, safety, and structure to children in state care,” she said.