250,000
Hondurans are displaced by gang violence
Displacement due to gang violence
Many neighbourhoods in Tegucigalpa are controlled by street gangs. The two most violent are Calle 18 and MS-13.
Many families are caught in the cross fire of gang violence. In some cases, they are sometimes forced to flee to safety, leaving behind their homes and jobs. This puts children and young people in challenging situations as their lives are turned upside down. The situation is particularly dangerous for women and young girls – they are subjected to sexual violence and death rates, or even murdered.
83
Teachers were murdered from 2008 to 2014
Schools are not safe
Many children living in Tegucigalpa can’t attend school because they can’t afford to or it’s not safe due to gangs.
Although schools are free to attend, families living in poverty often can’t afford to buy uniforms and learning materials.
Others can’t attend because it is not safe. They have to choose between survival and gang violence. Gang members threaten teachers to give their children passing grades or be killed. Children in schools and playgrounds can be caught in crossfire.
Your support makes a difference for children in Tegucigapla
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.
50
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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Practicing some writing. All the children in our care can go to kindergarten, school and young people can attend training (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Honduras).
How your support helps in Tegucigalpa
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.