60%
Of children under 5 do not grow properly in Madagascar
Food insecurity and malnourishment
The majority of the local population in Toamasina Province live in rural areas and make a living in agriculture. Although the region is quite fertile, the tropical climate can be a challenge. Often, cyclones and floods destroy homes as well as harvests. People lose their livelihoods, their source of income and food.
Many families struggle to provide enough nutritious food for their children, which can have detrimental long-term effects, especially for the youngest. In fact, up to 60% of children under the age of 5 suffer from limited physical growth and intellectual development due to malnourishment.
1 in 5
Children in Toamasina can read
Children drop out of school
The coastal region on the east of the island is often referred to as the “Madagascan Riviera” and is a popular international tourist destination. Although tourism means money for the local economy, it also brings its share of problems: children often work in the tourism sector, which can expose them to a great many dangers including sexual exploitation in the worst cases. Since poverty is so high in the area, many children are often expected to work to contribute to their household. As a result, they often do not go to school - only 1 in 5 children in the area can read, meaning that their future prospects are diminished.
Your support makes a difference for children in Toamasina
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
30
Children and young people
Learn at our kindergarten and school
90
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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Strengthening communities and children. Siblings grow up together, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Madagascar).
How your support helps in Toamasina
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.