Hand in Hand, Nkoranza, Ghana (UK Support)

History

Hand in Hand Peace of Christ Community (or PCC as it is known in the village of Nkoranza) was an idea conceived by the great Ineke Bosman, a Dutch-Ghanaian doctor. As she ‘scrubbed-up’ to perform surgery in Saint Theresa’s Hospital Nkoranza, Ineke would look towards a beautiful piece of land that stood close by, wondering what could be done with such a naturally peaceful and contented place. Having seen the horrors of state provision for children born with disabilities, Ineke was inspired to create her loving family. Hand in Hand was born, a sanctuary to nurture children who have had such a difficult start in life.

The Chief of Nkoranza donated the land to Hand in Hand PCC and gradually little cottages were built for the children and their care-givers. In the beginning three Ghanaian doctors and one Dutch-Ghanaian doctor were there as Hand in Hand PCC opened its doors to the first children in 1992: Dr. William Appeidu Mensah, Mr. George Kumih Kyeremeh, (both of whom left soon after the start), Mr. Andrew Osei Takyi and Dr. Ineke Bosman. Bob Maram joined in 1997, financial director and American husband of Ineke. Samuel Baffo joined in 1998 and used his entrepreneurial skills for income generating projects to benefit the ever-growing community, such as the internet-café in town and the guest-huts on site for visitors to Nkoranza.

Now the community has a family of over 40 young people and children. Each care-giver is Ghanaian and interviewed and trained by Ineke and Bob, as well as Ema, the care manager for Hand in Hand PCC.

To see with your own eyes the wonderful place that is Hand in Hand is truly special. In reality it is a small project in the midst of our vast world but to see such love, respect and peace is a precious thing. The scale of Hand in Hand means that it always needs support as there will always be more children that need not just food but development and love.

At the moment there is a great change taking place. Ab Van Galen and Jeanette Van Galen have stepped up to the task that is being the directors of Hand in Hand PCC. Ineke and Bob have devoted the last 15 years to Hand in Hand but they have made the hugely difficult but vital decision to give this responsibility to others. We are sure that this move has come at the right time and we wish every success to Ab and Jeanette.