Ayacucho

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

Ayacucho is a city of over 180,000 people located in a fertile valley. Many people moved to the city because they were forced to leave their homes due to violence or lack of opportunities in the rural areas where they came from. When people move to the city, many end up living in slums in the outskirts. Children and young people who move here with their families, face many challenges. They are growing up in an unstable situation with a lack of access to basic facilities, and to education.

Since 2006, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Ayacucho.

46%
Of the population in the region lives in poverty

Children living in poverty

Around 46% of the population of the region where Ayacucho is located, are living in poverty. Poverty is much higher in rural areas, even more so within indigenous communities. As many of these families struggle to make ends meet, children are often forced to drop out of school. They need to contribute to the family income by helping with farming and caring for the livestock. Dropping out of school affects indigenous girls and women more than boys and men. Of the Quechua population who have not had the chance to learn how to read and write, women make up 70%.

62%
Of boys living in rural areas are forced to work

Forced to work

Just over 62% of boys living in rural areas between the ages of 5 – 9 are forced into child labour. Although the number of children starting primary school has grown, many drop out of school early. This is especially true of children who live in poverty in rural areas. In addition, a study carried out by UNESCO found that children living in a family where the head of household’s education level is low, are most likely going to start working at a young age.

Your support makes a difference for children in Ayacucho

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.
100
Adults and children
Are supported in the community
410
Children
Could attend kindergartens
45
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
25
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
After school, children and young people can do their homework at home. They often enjoy doing it together and can help each other out (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Peru).

How your support helps in Ayacucho

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 and training
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.