The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is reinforcing its efforts to uplift solo parent-headed families by implementing Program SOLo, or Strengthening Opportunities for Lone Parents, its spokesperson said on Saturday.

In a news release, Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said the initiative seeks to empower solo parent-headed families not only through economic assistance but through holistic and technology-aided psychosocial support.

“The Program SOLo is designed to complement Republic Act (RA) No. 11861 or the Expanded Solo Parents Welfare Act. It is crafted with the realities of solo parents in mind – acknowledging the daily challenges they face while raising children single-handedly,” Dumlao said.

According to her, the program primarily targets solo parent-headed families with two to three children below 22 years old, especially those living close to one another.

She noted that Program SOLo goes beyond assistance, promoting transformation that would allow solo parent-headed families to enjoy a life that is “matatag” (secure), “maginhawa” (comfortable), and “panatag” (strongly rooted).

“We want to ensure that solo parents are not just surviving but truly thriving. The program aims to allow solo parents to perform their parental roles despite the problems and challenges they face,” Dumlao said.

Program SOLo will be implemented at the local level, enabling local government units (LGUs) to provide tailored interventions that reflect the unique needs of solo parent-headed households in their communities.

Its core objectives include providing client-centered family case management and service delivery and establishing parenting and emotional support systems for solo parents.

Another key aspect of the initiative is its developmental approach for the children of solo parents.

“The program prioritizes family well-being by ensuring children receive appropriate developmental interventions, recognizing that the stability of a solo parent directly impacts the growth and future of their children,” Dumlao said.

It also encompasses solo parents from diverse categories as defined under RA 11861, ensuring that all eligible families receive the support they need, she added.

“Through this program, we are building a society where solo parents are supported, respected, and empowered to raise resilient families,” Dumlao said. (PNA)