By Lydia Hill | Project Leader
The kids are back! Summer break is over in Bolivia, and school and our programs have started up again. Although COVID is still around, it is beginning to feel a bit back to normal. This is good news for the families who have really suffered economically, physically, and mentally over the last 3 years. The safe spaces created by the programs in both Tahuantinsuyo and Villa Ingenio help the children build resilience and cope with the stresses of their lives. THANK YOU for making this possible.
At Tahuantinsuyo 64 children ages 3 to 18 attend 5 days a week and receive nutrion via a hot lunch and healthy snacks. Three educators help the children with homework, self esteem building, fine motor skills, and learning about their rights. A part time psychologist helps them deal with trauma and stress. The children enjoy spending time at the centre very much, and have developed deep connections with each other that will last a life time.
In Villa Ingenio, the program that started in September 2022 will continue as a Saturday afternoon program for 2023. Three educators and several adult volunteers spend the afternoon with 48 children ages 6 to 13. The program offers therapy through play as well as a nutritious light meal, and helps the children overcome their low self esteem, poor nutrition, and general shyness after having missed two years of school due to COVID-19 because of not having access to tablets or computers. The parents continue to ask for more education support, something Help Bolivia is hoping to provide in the future.
These programs are helping to break the cycle of poverty by building resilience, and ensuring children stay in school longer to give them better opportunities than their parents have. The families want a hand UP, not a hand out. We are there to HELP.
The best way for us to grow our program in Villa Ingenio is with constant, reliable monthly support. If you haven't done so already, consider signing up as a GEM (Gifting Every Month). No amount is too small! Many hands make light work, and many GEMS will help this community shine.
THANK YOU for your support for the children in Bolivia. This is appreciated more than you know!
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