7 Million
Children live in poverty
Children living in poverty
Like everywhere in the country, but perhaps even more visibly here, the divide between rich and poor is pronounced in Mar del Plata.
With seven million children suffering from poverty across the nation, and two million of them living in extreme poverty, in households whose income cannot cover their minimum basic food needs, it is the future of Argentina that is at stake.
These circumstances lead to social segregation and marginalization, which can have a profound impact on the future of those children. Families need more support so that children and young people can hope for a better future.
18%
Of young people do not attend secondary school
Education needs more investment
In Mar del Plata and in all of the Buenos Aires region, 18 per cent of young people do not attend upper secondary school – the national average is 14 per cent. In addition, the average number of schooling years stands at 11 years in the Buenos Aires province for 12 years of national average. These numbers are all indicators of the educational challenges in the area.
Without further education, the local children and young people won’t acquire the skills necessary to access workplace opportunities. In time, this will stop them from making a better life for themselves and their families.
Your support makes a difference for children in Mar del Plata
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
120
Children and young people
Attend our kindergartens, schools and trainings
65
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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Having fun together on the trampoline on a special occasion. Children enjoy spending time together and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Argentina).
How your support helps in Mar del Plata
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.