Will you start with making a difference this new year? Let's also think about the less fortunate after our jolly & generous Christmas month.
Many people are not aware of child support issues in Ibiza. I was inspired after talking to a mother friend, who is a child psychologist. Then I started to do a lot of research through channels of the Consell de Eivissa and all the news of the last few years. This made me decide that we need to focus on this issue. It made me decide we need to shine a light on this. As founding mother of Ibiza Families, I believe in a community that is about lifting each other up. Beyond being a fun directory, we like to also be committed to supporting the more vulnerable among us. That’s why we start this journey by donating 100% of the first 2 month’s profits to support the foster homes of Ibiza. This is not just donation; it’s a call to action for all of us to recognize and address the growing challenges faced by children in need on our island. In this article I kindly share a bit more about this.
2024 Has brought significant attention to a major crisis: the devastating floods in Valencia. However, as the year draws to a close, we decided to shift our focus to the children of Ibiza and their future. Every child, no matter their circumstances, deserves the opportunity to thrive, and together, we can help make that a reality.
The reality is sobering. Kids are placed out of homes for reasons such as abuse, drug addictions and neglect. Sadly Ibiza has seen a rising number of children requiring foster care. With several heartbreaking cases including newborns that were forced to directly starting their life in a foster home. Facilities like Llar Mare del Remei in Santa Eulària des Riu, specialized centers for abused and vulnerable kids on hidden locations, and the Pare Morey Center are working tirelessly. However, they are bursting at the seams, operating beyond their capacities. The Consell de Ibiza has even had to establish emergency facilities to accommodate the growing number of children needing care. Yet, the demand continues to outpace resources, highlighting an urgent need for support.
One of the most pressing challenges is the need for more foster families. Currently, there are just around thirty foster families on the island, many of whom care for multiple children, including siblings. Recruiting new families has proven difficult due to housing shortages, strict requirements, and the transient nature of Ibiza’s population. Yet, fostering is a crucial lifeline for children who need a safe and nurturing environment.
In the coming months, we’re diving headfirst into this topic—with more ways to help, articles, interviews, and useful information. But for now, we start by inviting you to join the Ibiza Families community. And by becoming a member, you’re not just paying a fee; you’re making a meaningful year-end donation and you help us create a brighter future for the children in distress. What better motivation to unlock this treasure chest of family tools for your family?
The Consell de Ibiza has also made strides to address specific needs. In April 2024, they approved the creation of the first public residential care center in the Balearic Islands dedicated to minors with behavioral issues. This new facility provides specialized care for children in custody or guardianship who exhibit disruptive behaviors. While this is a significant step forward, the center’s limited capacity—just six places—underscores the scale of the challenges ahead.
As you can see, money is not the only issue. With the funds we raise, we’re not just supporting these foster homes operationally; we aim to bring joy to the children. One of our first initiatives is organizing a much-deserved amusement park trip to Sevilla. Because every child deserves to experience laughter, play, and the simple joys of childhood. Of course, we’ll keep you in the loop about the progress we’re making with the funds raised to reach our goal. We can’t wait to share the joyful moments when the kids are all set to enjoy this special experience.
Your support means the world to us. And this is just the beginning. Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we can ensure that every child in Ibiza feels the love and support of their island family.
Sources: Publications of Consell de Eivissa, Cadena SER, Diario de Ibiza, Periódico de Ibiza, Obispado de Ibiza, Nou Diari.