Salto

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

Salto is the capital city of the Salto administrative division in Uruguay. It is the second most populated city, after the capital of Montevideo, with a population of around 111,000 inhabitants. A city built on hills, the vineyards in Salto are considered the best in the country. Agriculture remains a key contributor to the economy, particularly work on citrus fruit plantations. Amidst the picturesque landscape, thousands of residents occupy shanty towns as families continue to live in poverty.

Since 1985, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Salto.

1000s
Of families live in shanty towns

Families lack access to infrastructure

There are many shantytowns on the outskirts of Salto. They are known as “Cantegrils” in Uruguay. The majority of the people who live here have moved from rural areas in hope of employment opportunities and a better life. But living in these informal settlements, has its challenges. There is a lack of basic infrastructure like sanitation and access to clean water. Further, with slum areas located in the outskirts of the city, families are unable to access essential or support services like hospitals and day-care centres. Raising young children in an ill-equipped environment has a detrimental effect on their physical health and psychological development.

25%
Of households don’t have access to sanitation

Lack of sanitation and ill-health

Salto is situated on the left bank of the Uruguay River and shares a border with Argentina. It is also precariously positioned near cities that are dengue endemic areas. Over the years, Salto has developed into a space with a high risk of local dengue transmission. This has different reasons, for example 25% of homes do not have access to safe sanitation. The lack of basic housing infrastructure as well as proper sanitation in the shantytowns across Salto is one of the main reasons for the spread of many illnesses, including dengue.

Your support makes a difference for children in Salto

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.
550
Children
Attend our day-care centres
80
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
5
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
Children and young people grow up together and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Uruguay).

How your support helps in Salto

Providing quality education and day care
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 and day-care centres. 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. Some children live in different neighbourhoods of the city, alongside local families. 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.