Peru

SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children grow up with the care, protection and relationships they need to become their strongest selves (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Peru).

Peru is located in the western part of South America. It borders Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile and Ecuador. Nearly 34 million people live in Peru. It is the third largest country in South America, and attracts many visitors to its magnificent natural and historical sites.
However, children and young people growing up here face many challenges. Peru is one of the world’s largest producers of cocaine. Illegal drug trade, murders, domestic violence and corruption are still worrying issues that affect many families.

SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children and young people without parental care, or at risk of losing it, in Peru since 1975.

Villages in Peru

  1. Arequipa
  2. Ayacucho
  3. Cajamarca
  4. Callao
  5. Chiclayo
  6. Chosica Rio Hondo
  7. Chosica-Esperanza
  8. Cuzco
  9. Huancayo
  10. Juliaca
  11. Pachacamac
  12. San Juan de Lurigancho

Children are at risk

In Peru, children under the age of 15 account for over 26% of the population. Vulnerable children and young people face many challenges which include living in poverty, and being affected by violence, abuse and malnutrition. Many of these children are forced to drop out of school at an early age. Children, young people and adults need support so that they can get a good education and training, and thus improve their chances in life.

30%

Of the population in Peru lives in poverty

Widespread poverty

Around 30% of the population of Peru lives in poverty. Poverty is most prevalent among indigenous communities living in remote rural areas.
One of the main ways in which poverty affects children is malnutrition. Over 13% of children under 5 are chronically malnourished.
Even though Peru is growing economically, anemia and chronic child malnutrition remain major issues. Young children are particularly vulnerable, and their development is affected.

30%

Increase in child labour in coca- producing areas

Child labour

Peru is one of the world’s largest producers of cocaine. Coca leaves are required to produce cocaine.
Demand for cocaine pushes a generation of children into forced child labour for coca farming and a life of crime.
Growing up in this environment increases their chances of staying in the cocaine industry in later life. When grown up, they are 30% more likely to be imprisoned for violent and drug related crimes.

30%

Of children in Peru experience violence

Violence

Around 30% of children in Peru experience violence and abuse.
Over the last 20 years, Peru has made significant efforts in the prevention, punishment and eradication of violence.
Unfortunately, the level of violence against children remains very high. Sadly, the most frequent form of violence experienced by Peruvian children is at home, by parents or caregivers.

Together we can make a difference for children in Peru

330

Families

Can stay together

6,140

Children, young people and adults

Can attend our kindergartens, schools and trainings

480

Children and young people

Grow up in our care

280

Young people

Are supported on their way to independence

Ana* is finishing her studies and dreams of having her own interior design business. In Peru, like in other countries, we support children and young people in their education. As they grow older, we draw up a plan with each young person and support them until they can become independent (*name changed, photo: SOS Children’s Villages Peru).