380,000
Adults and children live with HIV
HIV/AIDS can lead to poverty
HIV infection rates in the country are highest in the southern region, close to Abidjan. Latest numbers show that 21,000 children were reported to have been infected with the virus across the country – but only 49% children had access to antiretroviral therapy that suppresses the virus in the body and helps reduce mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Families who are affected by HIV/AIDS often cannot access treatment due to the high cost and long journeys to reach a medical centre. If they are ill and unable to work, they are increasingly at-risk of falling into abject poverty, and unable to ensure a nutritious diet for themselves and their children.
35%
Of Ivoirians have access to safe drinking water
Lacking access to drinking water
Many people in cities like Abidjan still do not have safe access to clean drinking water. The lack of access to water and sanitation mostly affects people living in extreme poverty who are economically marginalized.
Improving access to clean water and sanitation in these settings is important, as it puts children particularly at risk of childhood diseases and malnutrition. Both these things can affect their overall development, learning and, later in life, economic opportunities.
Your support makes a difference for children in Abobo-Gare
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
130
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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Developing their artistic talents; while playing and having fun (photo: SOS Children’s Villages in Côte d’Ivoire).
How your support helps in Abobo-Gare
Strengthening vulnerable 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.