Many of the children we support face extremely difficult circumstances. Some spend much of their time living or working on the streets. Others come from families struggling with poverty, homelessness, illness or other serious challenges.

Through Projeto Criança Feliz, children are given the opportunity to enjoy a safe and supportive environment where they can simply be children again.

Each week, our local partner organisation, IBCM (Instituição Assistencial Beneficente Conceição Macedo), organises outreach and support activities in different parts of Salvador. Children are provided with food, drinks, games, educational activities, practical support and access to healthcare and social assistance where needed.

Recent examples of support include helping a young child receive urgent medical treatment for a serious infection, providing educational and daytime support for a young girl following the loss of her mother, assisting twins and their mother who were living in extremely challenging conditions, and providing ongoing support to vulnerable children affected by illness, neglect, poverty and social exclusion.

Where necessary, children and families are also connected with healthcare services, social support networks and other forms of practical assistance to help address immediate needs and improve longer-term outcomes.

Every child has their own story. Some need medical support. Some need food and practical assistance. Others simply need a safe place, caring adults and the opportunity to enjoy a childhood that many of us take for granted.