To observe firsthand the progress of social work and child support programs in the East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) mission area, Sr. M. Yuliana, SND, Chair of the Notre Dame Social Foundation in Pekalongan, and Sr. M. Herlina, SND, Treasurer of the foundation, visited several Notre Dame Sisters’ communities in NTT. The visit focused on the progress of the programs, the needs of the communities, and the circumstances of the children receiving support.
The journey began at the Bintang Laut Oeleta Community, about 45 minutes from El Tari Airport in Kupang. There, the sisters support education by mentoring kindergarten and elementary school students. The growing number of students has led to the continued development of educational facilities and infrastructure. Sr. Maria Nicoline, SND, Sr. Maria Eufrasia, SND, and Sr. Maria Sesilio, SND, serve as teachers, administrative staff, community stewards, and ministers to the Church and the wider community.
From Oeleta, the journey continued to Wini to visit the Marganingsih home. The trip took the sisters along winding, steep roads through a predominantly hilly and rocky region, especially during the dry season.
The Marganingsih home in Wini currently supports 20 children, from elementary school through college. This support includes educational assistance, help with daily living expenses, skills training, and preparation for the children’s futures. Sr. Maria Detta, SND, serves as the superior of the community.
During the visit, Sr. M. Yuliana and Sr. M. Herlina presented several bicycles to the children at the center. The bicycles provide transportation, making it easier for the children to get to school and participate in daily activities. The visit also included a retreat, group activities, an arts performance, a shared meal, and prayer. After leaving Wini, the sisters continued to Kefamenanu to visit the community there before returning safely to Jakarta.
