Ben Tre

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

Since 1999, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Ben Tre.

49.1%
Incidence of people having E. coli in drinking water

Water and sanitation

When taking into account factors such as the social inclusion and protection of children, water and sanitation infrastructure, education and housing situation, and child labour rates, the Mekong Delta has one of the highest child poverty rates in the country. Many families have moved to other provinces. In the region, sanitation is poorer than at the national average. The incidence of people contracting E. coli in household drinking water is as high as 49.1%. Unsafe drinking water causes a number of infectious diseases – to which children are most vulnerable.

1 in 5
Women suffer sexual or physical abuse since age 15

Gender inequality

Women’s experiences are directly impacted by water insecurity and poverty in the Mekong River Delta. When livelihoods are threatened, families are displaced or they relocate. Women are often responsible for procuring water and managing the household budget. Caring obligations also tend to fall disproportionately on women. When people are forced to move, there is an increased risk of domestic violence: 1 in 5 women suffer sexual or physical abuse since age 15 in Vietnam.

Your support makes a difference for children in Ben Tre

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.
520
Adults and children
Are supported in the community
1,410
Children and young people
Learn at our kindergarten and school
90
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
50
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
After going to school, children often do some learning at home – it does look like fun! (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Vietnam).

How your support helps in Ben Tre

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.