Medan
Medan is the capital of the province of North Sumatra, located in the west of Indonesia. Around 2.5 million people live in the city, which is famous for its production of tobacco, palm oil, and tea. Also the manufacturing of automobiles has made this city a center of growth in the province.But not everyone benefits from the economic advantages, and many people struggle under difficult living conditions. Children in particular suffer from widespread malnutrition and poverty in the province.
Since 2005, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Medan.
7%
Of children live below the poverty line
Children are vulnerable to poverty
Although Indonesia is the largest economy in Southeast Asia, inequality grows between rural and urban populations, and between the different islands, divided in provinces.
This can be noticed in North Sumatra, where Medan is located. 9% of people live in poverty, and more specifically for children, 7% live below the poverty line. This can be partly linked to the 2004 tsunami, which left an estimated 150,000 children without parental care in North Sumatra.
Furthermore, many victims from the tsunami fled to Medan to start their lives anew.
30%
Of children suffer from stunting
Children do not get the food they need
Indonesia ranks fifth highest for stunting and fourth for wasting in the world, for children below five years old. Indeed, in Indonesia, 10% of children suffer from wasting (low weight for height) and 30% of children suffer from stunting (low height for age).
Specifically in North Sumatra, where Medan is located, between 25% and 30% of children suffer from stunting, which is a result from undernutrition. Stunting can have lasting effects on the children’s health.
A balanced nutrition and also better hygienic conditions could help prevent malnutrition.
Your support makes a difference for children in Medan
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.
960
Adults and children
Are supported in the community
30
Children
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
90
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
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30
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
How your support helps in Medan
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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. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. 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.