Luján

SOS Children’s Villages supports individual children, young people and families so that they can thrive (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Argentina).

Around 68 kilometres west of Buenos Aires, Luján has a population of 107,000. Known for its basilica, pilgrims flock in to see the statue of the Virgin of Luján. The city is situated on the river, 30 metres above sea level, and is an important producer of textiles. In the region, the majority of people work in agriculture. But in the South American country with the second highest Human Development Index, many have not recovered from the 2002 economic crisis, a situation that affects the living conditions of children.

Since 2000, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Luján.

89%
Of reported violence was committed by family

Violence in families

Girls and boys between 0 and 18 years old are at equal risk of suffering from emotional and physical violence – but girls face a risk of being victims of sexual violence five times higher than boys. An estimated 89% of reported acts of violence were committed by parents or stepparents, which confirms that violence is primarily exercised in the family and is related to power relations that perpetuate gender inequalities. The prevention, care and punishment of all forms of violence against children and young people is a priority.

1 in 5
Students lacks a quiet place to study

Education needs more investment

At least one in five 15-year-old students in Argentina lacks a quiet place to study at home – and only 52 per cent of households in the region have internet while 45 per cent only have a computer. Significant efforts have been made across Argentinian schools to integrate intercultural education into the teaching materials, but it is still not compulsory and left to the local authorities and schools to decide on how to target indigenous, Afro-descendant, and linguistic minorities. Inclusive, universal education is a priority to give children the tools to live a fulfilled adult life.

Your support makes a difference for children in Luján

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.
70
Adults and children
Are supported in the community
106
Children and young people
Attend our kindergartens, schools and trainings
10
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
10
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
Learning how to make a new recipe together. We try to teach children and young people some cooking skills so they can look after themselves in the future (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Argentina).

How your support helps in Luján

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. Some children live in different neighbourhoods in the city, alongside local families. 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.