Children are at risk
In Honduras, almost 40% of the population are children under 15. The majority of Hondurans live in rural areas such as small villages or isolated settlements. Children, young people and families living here are faced with poverty, no access to clean water and sanitation and lack of education. Half of the population has no access to clean and safe drinking water and this puts many children at risk of serious illnesses. In addition, many children have lost parental care due to the political and economic instability
79%
Of children are not proficient in reading in Honduras
High level of illiteracy
Primary education is free and compulsory in Honduras. However, children from low-income families often have to drop out of school. They are needed to work full time and support the family.
Around 20% of primary school aged children are not attending school. Children that are able to attend school may be faced with issues such as poorly trained teachers that have limited access to effective teaching materials, lack of resources and local schools.
15%
Of the population lives on less than $1.90 a day in Honduras
Poverty
Honduras has the second highest poverty rate in Latin America & the Caribbean. 4.8 million Hondurans live on less than $5.50 per day and third of the population lives on just over to that amount.
Poverty is felt in both rural and urban areas. However, since 2017, poverty rates have been increasing among urban households.
Food insecurity is among the highest in the region. Hundreds of families can’t afford to feed themselves.
34%
Of the population in Honduras use basic sanitation services
Health
One of the leading causes of child death in Honduras is pneumonia. This illness is closely linked to malnutrition, lack of clean water, poor sanitation and limited access to quality healthcare.
Gender and income levels play a part in the way people are treated. Honduras has the second lowest rate of professional healthcare coverage in Central America. A large part of healthcare fees is paid directly by the patient, meaning that many people can’t afford to go to the doctor.
Together we can make a difference for children in Honduras
220
Children and young people
Are supported on their way to independence
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Children and young people require care and protection in Honduras. There is a need to ensure that they are safe from violence and poverty, and have access to health and education. We support families so that they can stay together, and send their children to school. In those cases where children can’t stay with their families, they come into our care (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Honduras).
Let’s keep on protecting children and young people!
Many children have been able to find a safe and secure home. With your help, we can continue to change their lives