Vinh

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

The city of Vinh is situated at the mouth of the Songka River, about 300 km south of Hanoi, in the mountainous Nghe An province. The province is one of the largest in the north central area of Vietnam. Out of approximately 340,000 inhabitants, it is home to a large number of ethnic minorities who live in remote areas and are marginalized. Despite ongoing efforts to implement poverty reduction and socio-economic development programs in the region, ethnic minorities lack access proper housing, sanitation, and other basic services.

Since 1991, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Vinh.

1 in 10
Disabled children attends secondary school

Social exclusion

The social and economic conditions in the region mean that not all children get the best start to life: ethnic minorities and people with disabilities experience various forms of exclusion. Although ethnic minorities account for 15% of the total population, the rate of mortality of children under 5 among this group is 3.5 times higher than for the Kinh majority. Education remains out of reach for many, because although they are not charged fees, they cannot afford the other costs (books, transport and uniforms) involved. Among the 1.3 million children with disabilities in Vietnam, the lack of education is even more critical as, only 1 in 10 attends secondary school.

40%
Of households in smaller cities not connected to water supply systems

Development and infrastructure

It is estimated that around 17% of the population of Vinh lives in poverty, a situation that has attracted investment from international aid organizations in order to improve socio-economic conditions. Vinh has potential for economic growth due to its strategic position. Although the transport links are good, other infrastructures, such as the sewage and water treatment facilities, are in need of upgrading. Across Vietnam, in smaller sized cities like Vinh, 40% of households are not connected to water supply systems.

Your support makes a difference for children in Vinh

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.
820
Adults and children
Are supported in the community
1,900
Children and young people
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
150
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
120
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
Two brothers have fun doing their school work together. Education is important and so is sharing happy moments with friends (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Vietnam).

How your support helps in Vinh

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.