Pachacamac

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

Pachacamac is the capital of the Pachacamac District southeast of Lima. Around 110,000 people live here. Wealth inequality in Peru is one of the highest in the world. Recent figures show that 49% of income was held by the richest 20% of the population. In large part, inequality can be contributed to high levels of rural poverty in Peru. Building a “Wall of shame”, a six foot wall that divides the richer and poorer areas of the city, was Lima’s response to a wave of migrants from rural areas who built settlement on hillsides on the edge of the city.

Since 1997, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Pachacamac.

41%
Of women experienced violence from partner

Children experience violence

Children and young people growing up in Peru experience violence in different settings: on the streets, at school and in their home. Children who live in poverty, especially in rural areas, have an increased chance of experiencing violence. There have been a number of studies carried out showing how physical punishment can negatively affect children’s lives in the long term. Families need support so that children can grow up in safe environments.

6%
Of the population lives on $1.90 a day

Children living in poverty

Children and young people from families at risk are growing up in poverty. Nearly 6% of the population is living on $1.90 a day. The situation is particularly bad in rural areas: nearly half of rural communities are impoverished Income inequality, the divide between rural and urban areas and low education levels all contribute to Peru’s high poverty levels. Additionally, inequality in Peru is regional, regions with indigenous populations need most support. Children growing up in poverty, lack access to services, and have scarce educational opportunities.

Your support makes a difference for children in Pachacamac

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.
5
Families
Can stay together
50
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
12
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
Children regularly do some studying at home after school. They often do it together around the dining table and help each other out (photo: SOS Children’s Village Pachacamac).

How your support helps in Pachacamac

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 training so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start their own businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to 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.