15%
Of children in Peru are forced to work
Children forced to work
According to UNICEF data, 15% of children in Peru are working. This is especially the case in rural areas: younger children start by herding animals and as they get older, the work gets more physically demanding. In some areas, children as young as five must combine domestic chores with work and school.
Working long hours has a negative impact on their ability to attend school and complete homework. As a result, many children drop out of school without completing primary education.
33%
Of the population lives on less than $5.50 per day
Children living in poverty
Just under 33% of the population lives on less than $5.50 per day
Poverty amongst indigenous groups is more prevalent Despite Peru’s national economic growth in recent years there are major differences between rural and urban areas, Spanish and non-Spanish speakers and across regions. The Peruvians who are most likely to live in poverty are indigenous, living in rural areas, either in the rural jungle or the Andean highlands.
Children living in these places also face further challenges such as food insecurity and malnutrition.
Your support makes a difference for children in Chosica Rio Hondo
SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
25
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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Doing some learning at home. All children and young people in our care go to school or take part in further training (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Peru).
How your support helps in Chosica Rio Hondo
Strengthening families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run training so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start their own businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.