90%
Of people in Madagascar do not use basic sanitation facilities
Strain on infrastructure
Rural exodus in the areas surrounding Antsirabe has resulted in the city’s considerable growth over recent years. While it has a relatively stable economy, the increase in the number of people has put pressure on jobs and many remain unemployed. Furthermore, this puts further strain on basic infrastructure, and many people that move here in hope of a better life end up living in very poor conditions in the outskirts of the city. Lack of proper housing, sanitation and clean drinking water are the reality for many families. In fact, roughly 90% of Madagascar’s inhabitants do not use basic sanitation facilities such as toilets. Many of these live in the outskirts of Antsirabe and these living conditions can have a long-lasting impact on children.
5 in 10
Children living in poverty do not attend school
Out of school and working
Urban poverty is a challenge for many people in Antsirabe. Unemployment is high and many people struggle to make a living. Unable to afford proper housing or food to put on the table, it is not uncommon that everyone in the family has to contribute to household income in one way or another. This means that often, children have to work instead of going to school.
In fact, almost 5 in 10 of the poorest children under 14 aren’t in school. This number is four times higher than for children who don’t live in poverty. This has long-term effects for children as it becomes near impossible to break the vicious cycle of poverty.
Your support makes a difference for children in Antsirabe
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.
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
100
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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Children grow up together, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Madagascar).
How your support helps in Antsirabe
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.
Providing medical care
In areas with limited health services, SOS Children’s Villages provides medical advice and assistance. We offer preventative measures such as medical check-ups and vaccination programmes. Most of the patients who approach us for medical help come from local families, who could otherwise not afford to receive treatment.
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.