Mayor Ljubiša Petrović visited the construction site of the Shelter for Children at Risk in Pučile on the occasion of the introduction of the contractor for the third phase of works.
 
In addition to the Mayor, the beginning of the third phase – during which electrical and plumbing installations, joinery, and flooring will be installed – was also attended by the Head of the Department of Social Affairs, Ljubiša Stanišić, and the representative of Caritas BiH, who is also the Project Manager of “Integral Approach to Social Inclusion”, Bakir Omukić.
 
According to the Agreement on Mutual Relations between Caritas Switzerland in BiH and the City of Bijeljina, the value of the project for the third phase amounts to BAM 400,000, with each signatory party contributing BAM 200,000. The deadline for the completion of this phase is eight months.
 
The public procurement launched last year for the first and second phases of construction was worth BAM 324,224.81, of which BAM 289,899.99 was allocated from the City budget, while BAM 34,324.81 was provided as a subsidy from the Council of Europe.
 
In the next, fourth phase, the heating system will be installed and landscaping will be carried out. It is estimated that these works will cost BAM 140,000, while the fifth phase will include the interior furnishing of the facility.
 
Commenting on the fact that Bijeljina will have such a facility as of next year, Mayor Petrović said that this represents an expression of socially responsible behaviour of the local community aimed at protecting children’s rights.
 
“The Shelter for Children at Risk will play a key role in providing support and protection to children who are left without adequate parental care or are exposed to various forms of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. The shelter will provide safe accommodation, medical, psychological, and social support, education, as well as assistance in finding permanent solutions such as foster care,” said the Mayor, adding that the shelter will cooperate with various institutions, civil society organisations, and public services to ensure the best possible treatment for its beneficiaries.
 
Project Manager Bakir Omukić emphasised that Caritas BiH has excellent long-term cooperation with the City of Bijeljina and expressed hope that, after the completion of the “Integral Approach to Social Inclusion” project next year, the partnership will continue. He also pointed out that he is extremely proud of everything achieved so far in Semberija under this project, particularly the housing support for Roma families through the construction of new housing units.