300
Children have lost their lives in the conflict
Children are affected by conflict
Jammu is located in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, a region struggling with political unrest and disputes between Pakistan, India and China. The conflict has been going on for more than 30 years and has claimed hundreds of thousands of victims, civilians and soldiers alike. Not only have mass killings been reported, but also disappearances, torture and rape.
Children living there in one of the most militarized zones in the world are particularly exposed to the violence. More than 300 children have been killed since 2003, and many others are victims of sexual violence. Children are also recruited as child soldiers. Sadly, the situation does not seem to be improving any time soon.
6,500
People live in slums
Living in informal settlements
In the state of Jammu and Kashmir, where Jammu is located, 660,000 people live in slums.
People often move to Jammu in search of a better life and job opportunities, but as the infrastructure cannot sustain the increase in people, many end up living in one of the city's slums.
These slums lack affordable housing, proper sanitation and clean drinking water. In Jammu specifically, an estimated 6,500 people in the city live in slums. Children are the most affected by the poverty prevailing in these slums and have no access to medical care and education.
Your support makes a different for children in Jammu
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
110
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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Brothers spending time together after school. Siblings grow up together in families, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages India).
How your support helps in Jammu
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.