21%
Of people suffer from poverty
Children are vulnerable to poverty
Although Indonesia is the largest economy in Southeast Asia, inequality grows between rural and urban populations, and between the different islands, divided in provinces. This can be noticed on the island of Flores, which is part of the province of East Nusa Tenggara. Indeed, this is the fourth poorest province in Indonesia, with a poverty rate of 21%. This is much higher than the national rate of 10%. The increase in tourism has led to some improvements, but many areas, especially in more rural zones, continue to lack basic infrastructure - good roads, water, sanitation, as well as services such as health care and education. Children are most affected by the difficult living conditions caused by poverty.
50%
Of children suffer from stunting in Flores
Children are suffering from malnutrition
Indonesia ranks fifth highest for stunting and fourth for wasting in the world, for children below 5 years old. Indeed, in Indonesia, 10% of children suffer from wasting (low weight for height) and 30% of children suffer from stunting (low height for age).
The percentage in Flores is much higher. There, between 40% and 50% of children suffer from stunting, which is a result from undernutrition and can have lasting effects on the children’s health.
A balanced nutrition and also better hygienic conditions could help prevent malnutrition.
Your support makes a difference for children in Flores
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
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
90
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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Children working on their computer stkills. These are an integral part of education and preparation for their future lives (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Indonesia).
How your support helps in Flores
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.