French Polynesia is exposed to frequent natural disasters including cyclones, landslides, tsunamis, floods and earthquakes that destroy homes and livelihoods. Recent political and economic instability has left a quarter of the population living in poverty and led to high unemployment rates amongst the region's incredibly large youth population. As a consequence, many children in the region have been left without parental care. 

The SOS Children's Village in Papara, Tahiti provides a secure family upbringing for 49 unsupported children, providing them with access to a quality education, healthcare and psycho-social support.