Child welfare NGOs caught in publicity dilemma

• Source: Global Times
• [21:42 March 29 2010]
• Comments

Sadly, given obvious financial constraints, there is only so much that any one agency can do without taking the risk of diminishing the level of care and attention they provide to the children they are already responsible for.

Notwithstanding the realities of limited resources, turning away a child in need is an impossible decision for any care worker.

There are inarguable benefits to publicity and a higher profile. Just as there are the obvious downsides. It's a tricky dilemma.

If an agency relies solely on word of mouth and targeted, but narrow, campaigns to raise funds, they are always going to be on the brink of financial catastrophe.

If, on the other hand, they decide to mount a publicity campaign or agree to media coverage, there is the danger of being overwhelmed before the hoped-for donations arrive, if they ever do.

The unique challenge this presents to agency directors is beyond the imagination of most of us.

Consequently, many of the smaller or specialized child care agencies fly just beneath the radar, attracting as little attention as possible. They do the best they can on shoestring budgets, for as many as they can.

In many cases the children they cannot accept have lost their last chance of a better life. A cruel but necessary cull, if you like, in order that the few the agency can help will have the opportunity to thrive.

Since 2001 the number of children born with birth defects in China has risen dramatically, by as much as 40 percent.

Some estimates suggest a child with special medical needs is born every 30 seconds, straining the resources of governmental and NGOs alike. Up 90 percent of children in orphanages have some sort of medical need.

Recent moves to tighten restrictions on overseas donations to local non-profits will only make the situation more difficult.

If overseas funding dries up or is delayed, the local NGOs will have little choice but to campaign locally, and face the inevitable problems that come with it.

It's another impossible choice for which there is no right answer.

The author is a host and co-producer with China Radio International. viewpoint@ globaltimes.com.cn