39%
Of people live in extreme poverty
Poverty affects families
The number of people living in extreme poverty has increased in the last years: 39% of people living in Harare, where Waterfalls is located, live in extreme poverty.
The lack of work and rising prices mean that many families cannot buy food or go to the doctor as both are too expensive. For children, this has particularly severe consequences, as they are not only exposed to malnutrition, but often also have to deal with easily treatable diseases that go untreated.
1,700
Children have lost both parents in Waterfalls
Children lack parental care
In Waterfalls, 1,700 children have lost both parents. In many cases, parents have died due to HIV/AIDS or to other treatable diseases.
Children who have no parental care have to fend for themselves. As a result, many of them have no chance to get an education - instead they work in the informal sector and cannot escape the vivious cycle of poverty.
Your support makes a difference for children in Waterfalls
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
150
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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Children playing outside and having fun together. Children in our care form bonds that often last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Zimbabwe).
How your support helps in Waterfalls
Strengthening vulnerable 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.