12%
Of children and young people live in extreme poverty
Children living in poverty
Around 12% of children and young people are living in extreme poverty in Brazil.
Many children who grow up in poverty do not go to school – they often have to drop out of education to contribute to the family income.
It is often difficult for them to stay healthy- there may be a lack of nutritious food, or they may not have access to clear water or other basic services.
A Brazilian study examined how childhood poverty also affects the mental health of children and young people.
500,000
Children and young people are sexually exploited each year
Children at risk of sexual exploitation
Children and young people in Brazil are at risk of being sexually exploited in different settings across the country.
Around 500,000 reports of sexual exploitation of children are recorded each year. However, this is not an accurate picture of the extent of exploitation. One study showed that 74% of people do not report sexual exploitation when they see it. The Brazilian Ministry of Human Rights launched a free hotline “Dial 100” to encourage people to report cases.
Your support makes a difference for children in Porto Alegre
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.
6
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
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A day out is so much fun! But it is even better if they can be surrounded by nature and learn about the local fauna and flora (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Brazil).
How your support helps in Porto Alegre
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.
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.