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El Salvador

Working With Children in El Salvador

In El Salvador, violence between government forces and powerful gangs has forced thousands of children and parents to flee their homes. We work with domestic organizations to support these families and create an environment where children are safe and protected.

More than half a million people in the country live on less than two dollars a day, creating a real obstacle to development for the children of El Salvador. Our Circles of Good Health and Nutrition program trains parents to grow healthy vegetables with safe irrigation water and to provide better nutrition through exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by a diversity of healthy foods for toddlers.

Your impact in El Salvador

Together, we’re making real change in the lives of children, families and communities. Just some of what was achieved with the support of Canadian child sponsors in 2016:
Boys and girls are safe and valued, well cared-for by their families and participating in their communities as agents of transformation.

 
  • We started Youth for Development Clubs to provide training in decision making, spiritual values, reproductive health and preparing a plan for life
  • 46 young people are leading or attending child parliaments to advocate for their rights and influence local decisions
  • 84 people learned about child rights and protection issues, helping ensure children's safety and participation
  • 16 community groups are engaging with local authorities to advance their rights and create positive changes for children in El Salvador
     
Children and families are well nourished, protected from infection and disease and have access to essential health services.

 
  • We trained mothers to create peer training circles on childhood nutrition, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, growth monitoring and disease prevention
  • 258 malnourished children in El Salvador were enrolled in nutritional programs and monitored to ensure they are growing healthy
  • 545 parents and caregivers learned how to provide proper nutrition to their children and protect them from diseases
  • 32 health workers and volunteers were trained to provide quality health services, especially for women and children
     
Children learn and develop their talents, young people are equipped for the future and families support children's education.

 
  • To encourage early childhood development we opened preschools where children socialize with other kids and build their number and letter skills to be ready for primary school
  • 579 preschool children are developing vital language and motor skills, setting a solid foundation for their education
  • 2,249 children and youths were trained in essential life skills such as critical thinking, self-esteem and communication
  • 381 clubs are in place for children and youths to improve their learning through tutoring and extracurricular activities
     
Adults and youth acquire knowledge and skills, and gain access to resources, to help them increase their family income.

 
  • 547 youth were equipped to enter the job market through apprenticeships, vocational training or career counselling
  • 2,745 children and adults received nutritious fruits and vegetables grown in community, school or family gardens
  • 2,500 farmers received livestock, seeds or tools to improve productivity and better provide for their children and families
  • 400 farmers learned techniques to improve crop and livestock production to better provide for their children and families
     
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