Mrs. drs. Mervin Wyatt Ras, Aruba’s Minister of Public Health, Social Affairs, Elderly Care, and Addiction Care, paid a working visit to De SGR-Groep. The visit focused on building connections, exchanging knowledge, and exploring opportunities for further collaboration in the fields of specialized care and rehabilitation. Alongside the Board of Directors—comprising Managing Director Carlanne Emerenciana and Director of Support Services Linda Cijntje-Gout—and the management team of De SGR-Groep, the minister visited several of the organization’s locations.
During the tour, Minister Wyatt Ras gained insight into the broad range of services provided by De SGR-Groep and the daily support offered to clients with diverse care and assistance needs. The itinerary included visits to the Rehabilitation Center Curaçao (RCC), Curaçao Orthotics & Prosthetics (COP), the Therapeutic Toddler Group (TPG), the residential facilities of Fundashon Verriet, the Care Farm De Waarborg, and Kas Noord Zapateer Phase 2. A standout moment of the visit was meeting Aruban clients residing within Fundashon Verriet.
Currently, 26 Aruban clients utilize the organization’s residential and care facilities. During a warm and personal gathering, the minister had the opportunity to converse with several of these clients. As a token of appreciation, they presented her with a handmade piece of art and a special recital, making it a truly meaningful encounter.
Additionally, the minister had the chance to observe firsthand how clients spend their days within some of Fundashon Verriet’s facilities. She attended various daytime activity programs, spoke with clients and staff members, and saw how guidance, treatment, and social integration are implemented in practice. This direct interaction provided a valuable perspective on the positive impact these services have on the daily lives and well-being of the clients.
The visit provided ample opportunity for a valuable exchange of experience and expertise. The management of De SGR-Groep looks back on Minister Wyatt Ras’s visit with deep appreciation. The open dialogues, genuine interest, and heartfelt commitment to the clients and staff rendered the working visit an inspiring and worthwhile encounter for everyone involved.
Minister Wyatt Ras also expressed her satisfaction regarding the visit:
“We look back on a exceptionally valuable and inspiring day. We were highly impressed by the quality of service, the facilities, and above all, the passion, expertise, and dedication of the staff. It was wonderful to see how well the Aruban clients are being guided and how much attention is dedicated to their well-being. We felt very welcome and thank De SGR-Groep for the warm reception and the openness with which the organization shared its work with us.”
