1 in 10
People are internally displaced
Displaced and marginalized
Of Georgia’s 300,000 internally displaced people, mostly women and children, more than 100,000, settled in Tbilisi.
The unemployment rate in Tbilisi is twice the national average, at around 21%, however the unemployment rate for internally displaced persons in cities is around 40%.
As a result, children in displaced families are more likely to experience poverty as well as social and economic exclusion. They are also at greater risk of sexual and physical violence and exploitation.
1,500
Registered people without a home
Homelesness
Homelessness is a growing problem in Tbilisi. Although more than 1,500 people are registered as homeless, more than 6,500 have applied.
However, despite a lack of government data, around 10,000 families without a home live in 400 squat buildings in Tbilisi, many of whom are refugees and displaced persons.
Homelessness means exclusion and marginalization, for adults as well as children. Shelters are often moved away from urban centres, which limits access to employment and services, including health care and education for children.
Your support makes a difference for children in Tbilisi
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.
Are supported in the community
Are supported on their way to independence
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Siblings spending time together. They grow up with each other, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Georgia).
How your support helps in Tbilisi
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 trainings so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary 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.