Crescer means 'to grow up' in Portuguese and is the name of the project supporting the youngest of the children. Casa Jimmy, the Task Brasil shelter, accommodates 30 children up to the age of 6 (entry age). Most of these children are referred to Task Brasil either by Rio's social services or by the Council for the Rights of Children and Adolescents.

The programme's ultimate objective is to reunite the children with their family. Task Brasil then provides an aftercare service offering support and assistance, and monitors how well the child and family are bonding. If reuniting is not possible, the charity tries to locate an adoptive family.

Since October 1998 over 450 children and pregnant adolescents and their babies have lived at Casa Jimmy. The majority of children have been reunited with their families or adopted.

For some children, Casa Jimmy will probably remain their home longer that we hope. The chances of finding a family able to adopt siblings or older children are smaller. Children will stay at Casa Jimmy as long as they need to.

Casa Jimmy ensures that all of the children's needs are met and places particular importance on helping to build self-confidence and self-esteem with quality care. Upon arrival, each child is assessed so that their own individual needs, problems, as well as abilities, can be identified.

The children attend a local school or crèche and visit the doctor and dentist regularly. Some may also receive counselling. The staff tell stories, play games and organise creative activities to develop social skills, and as in most homes, there is playtime, and birthday parties and visits to the park.

For Adoption enquires please contact one of the Brazilian government agencies. eg. CEJA - information about adopting a child.