Why are there only girls living at FMNCH?
The decision was initially made to start the home for girls as females in Nepal are subjected to the worst kinds of atrocities and the need for protection was immediate. Forget Me Not is also looking a other projects which will involve supporting boys in the future.
What are the plans for the future of FMNCH?
Forget Me Not has a bright and wonderful future. Our initial plan involved purchasing land to build a permanent home for the children with an attached school in five years. In July 2009 we purchased land and are now in the process of starting our new vision: Forget Me Not Eco Village. This village will be able to cater to 60 children. All our children will receive the opportunities to be able to grow into independent and strong individuals.
What happens to the money raised in Australia?
The money raised in Australia goes directly towards the running costs of the orphanage and building Forget Me Not Eco Village. Every cent that is raised goes to where it is needed and directed. There are no hidden costs and nobody is paid for volunteering their services. Our CEO is paid through specific sponsorship.
What are the basic costs of running the FMNCH?
With an orphanage at full capacity of 20 orphans and 6 full time Nepali staff it will cost us $4050.00 per month to maintain. This covers schooling, rent, food, clothing etc.
How are the local Nepali people involved in running FMNCH?
We have two separate organisations, one here in Australia in Hervey Bay and one in Nepal. The Australian organisation is responsible for fundraising and awareness raising, whilst the Nepalese organisation is responsibile for the everyday responsibilities that come with running a household. The members of the Nepali committee also regularly check in on the children and handle the local staffing matters. Members of the Australian organisation visit Nepal twice per year to conduct audits, meet with the Nepalese organisation and check on the children’s welfare.
The staff caring for the children are all Nepali. We feel that it is very important for the children to grow up in a culturally appropriate environment – so we do not use volunteers to care for the children.
How many children live there?
Currently we have 21 beautiful girls.
Where is the Forget Me Not Children’s Home situated?
It is located in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Can I visit Forget Me Not?
Forget Me Not does not recruit volunteers however we do have a Visitors Program. Members of the Australian management committee visit Nepal twice per year. Visitors are welcome to join these trips, however we do have a process that you must comply with in order to be approved for a trip. We do not allow visitors outside of these trips as a safety precaution. All visitors (including management committee) are responsible for all costs associated with their trip.
Our trips are generally 2-3 weeks in length and in 2009 will be held in February/March and October in 2010. Trips are led by one of the management committee members.
In order to join one of these trips, you need to either be involved in the organisation or fundraise a certain amount of money for the organisation. You also need to have a blue card.
If you are interested in joining one of the trips, please email us.
How can I help?
There are many ways you can help us to help these children. You can get involved with our organisation in Hervey Bay by attending meetings and volunteering at fundraisers. If you don’t live in Hervey Bay, you can conduct fundraisers on our behalf (contact us first!) or spread the word of Forget Me Not. We have DVD’s available that illustrate our story, as well as brochures and information kits. Please contact us for more information on how you can help!
