1 in 3
People are unemployed
High unemployment
Around 1 in 3 people in the West Bank do not have a job. As a result, over one third of the population of the West Bank lives in poverty.
Many families with children were struggling to make ends meet before the escalation of the conflict in 2023. In most recent times, their situation, and that of many others, has worsened due to the fighting and the deteriorating economic situation.
Ongoing military operations and the volatile situation means that families cannot count on a regular source of income. This has long lasting effects on all members of the family, but especially children.
1 M
People require water and sanitation services
Children are at risk
According to UNICEF, in the West Bank around one million people need water and sanitation services. Over 830,00 need urgent health care.
The lack of safe water or sanitation services, linked to the difficulty getting medical attention, puts the lives of children at particularly high risk.
And this is on top of the daily disruption that children face in their lives – children cannot go to school regularly, cannot play easily or enjoy the freedom and safety that they deserve. In addition to these basic services, they need specialized care and attention to overcome their challenges.
Your support makes a difference for children in Bethlehem
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
110
Young people and adult
Attend our trainings
Are supported on their way to independence
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In March 2024, children in our care from SOS Children’s Village Rafah were evacuated to safety to Bethlehem. Due to the war, they could not go to school for many months. But then, thanks to working with partners they were able to resume their education (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Palestine).
How your support helps in Bethlehem
Strengthening families and communities
When parents face hardships, they sometimes struggle to care for their children. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners to get each family the support they need. It can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run trainings so that parents can get the skills they need to earn a living. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help, including psychological support, and go to school. At the moment, we are focusing on meeting the basic needs of families and giving them psychological support.
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. Some of the families live in different parts of Bethlehem, alongside other local families. Even though this is sometimes interrupted due to the ongoing conflict, we work hard so that children 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.