The Philippines has an abandoned children problem. About 1.8 million children in the country, more than 1% of its entire population, are “abandoned or neglected,” according to the United Nations’ Children’s Rights & Emergency Relief Organization.
Orphaned, abandoned and runaway children are among the most destitute in Filipino society. Surviving as best they can on the streets in the heart of Manila, they are highly susceptible to abuse, exploitation and malnutrition. Staff from the Kuya Centre for Street Children work with young people living as vagrants, using games and drama to focus on topics such as substance and drug prevention, child rights, sex education and life skills. Wherever possible the young people are encouraged to reconcile with their families.
Kuya Center empowers children to transition from street life, and collaborates to reduce vulnerabilities, prevent exploitation and expand opportunities. At the Centre they can take part in a number of programs and choose from a range of educational options. Regular schooling is offered to those of normal school age and attainment; accelerated education to older boys with low attainment levels; while evening classes are held for young adults. The Centre’s residential program provides food, clothing, shelter, medical care, including detoxification if required, psychological assessment, counselling and safety for 30 boys.
During 2016, three hundred and two (302) children received some kind of intervention from the Street Services program – one hundred and ninety (190) boys and one hundred and twelve (112) girls.
Category | Boys | Girls |
Street Based Child | 91 | 38 |
Child of Street Families | 89 | 63 |
Community Based Child | 10 | 11 |
Total | 190 | 112 |
Most of the counselling sessions conducted were focused on the child’s future. What is his/her plan for their future; is family re-unification possible; or is it feasible for them to be referred to a residential center. During the counselling session the risks of residing on the streets are emphasized so that the child can decide what may be best for his/her safety and wellbeing. You can help change the future of those abandoned kids by donating here: Kuya Centre for Street Children | PH0002