14%
Of children live in extreme poverty
Children living in extreme poverty
In the northeast of the country, 14 % of children live in extreme poverty – for comparison, in the south of Argentina, this number drops to 8%.
And 58% of them live in poverty, meaning 361,000 children who live with their families around the Misiones province are unable to access basic needs such as clean water and safe toilets, food, and adequate housing.
These children are extremely vulnerable to dropping out of education or being involved in crime. They need more support so that they can hope for a better future.
20%
Of babies are born to adolescent mothers
Early pregnancies
The issue of early pregnancy affects all of Argentina and rates varies across the country. The province of Misiones, where Oberá is located, has one of the highest adolescent birthrates. Around 20% of babies are born to mothers who are aged between 15-19.
These numbers are a sign of the challenges that the region enounters. Just over 38% of the total population of the province lives in poverty. Education, socioeconomic level, age and access to sexual and reproductive health education & services all impact early pregnancy rates.
Your support makes a difference for children in Oberá
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
1,100
Children and young people
Attend our kindergartens, schools and trainings
20
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
Children in Oberá are having fun (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Argentina).
How your support helps in Oberá
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. Some children live in different neighbourhoods in the city, alongside local families. 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.