Our commitment to
Latin America
Background
The Latin American region comprises the countries of the American continent where Spanish and Portuguese are the primary languages spoken. The culture of this region is the result of a blend of indigenous, European, and African influences.
The countries of Latin America differ significantly in terms of their politics, economies, and geography. While the region as a whole is considered to have great economic potential and many of the countries have now reached a middle-income level by international standards, there is an extremely unequal distribution of these resources.
With nearly one-third of Latin America’s population living in poverty, this represents one of the region’s greatest social and political challenges. Many people have only limited access to basic resources such as education, healthcare, and clean drinking water. Rural areas and indigenous communities are particularly hard hit.
In addition to historical factors, such as the colonial era, which has hindered economic development in many countries, political instability and high levels of corruption also exacerbate poverty. Furthermore, dependence on raw material exports and a lack of economic diversification contribute to this situation. Unemployment and a large informal sector also prevent many people from earning a stable income.
Deforestation of the rainforest, illegal mining, and the consequences of climate change also pose major problems, particularly for the disadvantaged rural population. Due to the destruction of their farmland, they can barely provide for themselves anymore.
Mass poverty in Latin America gives rise to serious problems such as high crime rates, widespread racism, and extreme violence, particularly domestic violence against women and children. The combination of food shortages, a collapsed healthcare system, and widespread violence has resulted in an ongoing refugee crisis described as the largest in the region’s recent history.
Through our work in Latin America, we focus on structurally disadvantaged countries and regions, as well as children and families living in poverty who urgently need our help. That is why, through our on-the-ground projects, we work every day to sustainably improve the living conditions of children and their families and give them new prospects for the future.
Häufig gefragt
What does ChildFund Germany stand for, and what is the goal of its work?
Our goal is to bring about lasting improvements in the future prospects of children in need, their families, and their entire communities. Through our commitment to these children and families, we aim to make a positive difference and create lasting improvements, always guided by the principle of helping people help themselves. This enables them to exercise their rights, overcome poverty and dependency, and lead independent and self-determined lives.
How can I be sure that my donation actually reaches its destination?
The efficient use of the donations entrusted to us is our top priority. To ensure that our aid is used in a highly targeted manner, we rely on close collaboration with local partner organizations in all the countries where we operate, so that our assistance meets the specific needs on the ground. Furthermore, all our support is guided by the principle of helping people help themselves. This ensures that the people in our projects benefit from long-term and lasting changes and, in the long run, no longer depend on aid but can live independently and self-determinedly. Our transparent and responsible handling of donations is also confirmed by the DZI Donation Seal, which we have been awarded continuously since 1995 by the German Central Institute for Social Issues.
How does ChildFund Germany work?
Our work is made possible by three sources of funding: sponsorships, other donations, and public funds. Our projects funded by sponsorships are designed for the long term. They are characterized by particularly close collaboration between our partner organizations in the respective project country and the local communities.
The donation-based and publicly funded projects have a shorter duration. Due to the limited timeframe, these projects require more intensive planning and support on our part.
In all projects, ChildFund plays two specific roles: First, raising funds so that the project work can be implemented at all. And second, bringing together and building bridges between those who provide money and expertise and those who lack these resources. The goal is to maximize mutual benefit from the collaboration and to advance our projects in the most effective way possible.
What kinds of projects does ChildFund Germany carry out?
Our projects, which are funded through sponsorships, are designed for the long term. They are characterized by particularly close collaboration between our partner organizations in the respective project country and the local communities.
The donation-based and publicly funded projects have a shorter duration. Due to the limited timeframe, these projects require more intensive planning and support on our part.
What regions and issues does ChildFund Germany focus on?
We operate in various countries across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. Our work focuses primarily on education, nutrition, livelihood support, and child protection, as well as humanitarian aid in emergency situations. Issues such as health and climate protection are also central to many of our projects.
How can I support ChildFund Germany?
There are many different ways to support our work. From a one-time donation to a regular donation as a “Future Donor” to becoming a sponsor, you are free to choose the form of support that best suits you. Long-term and particularly sustainable support can also take the form of a foundation or a bequest. We also offer a range of customized support options for businesses and schools.