WILLEMSTAD – The Children’s Protection Foundation Curaçao (Stichting Kinderbescherming Curaçao, SKBC) has raised the alarm that the Children and Youth Helpline 918 is under threat due to declining funding. The warning was issued in a letter dated August 12, addressed to the parliamentary committees for Education, Science, Culture and Sport (OWCS) and Social Development, Labor and Welfare (SOAW). 

The helpline, which has been in operation for more than twenty years, receives thousands of calls annually from children and young people facing abuse, neglect, or psychological problems. SKBC has previously cautioned that uncertain funding jeopardizes the continuity of this crucial service. 

Rising costs, shrinking resources 

According to SKBC, rising operational costs have already forced cutbacks in projects and reductions in staff salaries. This has led to staff turnover and threatens the sustainability of the helpline, which plays a vital role in child and youth protection. 

The foundation is urging for more structural cooperation with the Ministry of SOAW and the youth care organization UOJZ. A formal partnership or memorandum of understanding could, it argues, strengthen the effectiveness of child protection services. SKBC also seeks to collaborate with the Ministry of Justice to explore how preventive programs can support families and help reduce youth crime. 

Call for urgent talks 

In its letter, SKBC requests that Parliament initiate follow-up discussions as soon as possible to reach sustainable agreements on funding, cooperation, and the continuity of youth protection on Curaçao. 

“The continuation of Helpline 918 is essential for the safety and well-being of our children,” wrote chairperson Mr. Diahanne Lichtenberg.