A Hot Potato

In the past street children have been the hottest of hot potatoes, the authorities pretended they didn’t exist, and many were murdered by vigilante groups, they were seen as a menace, giving Brazil a bad name and putting off investors. Thankfully, things have changed, and the government has now established programs to help street children. Unfortunately this isn’t enough, and without the intervention and help from NGOs and volunteers like you the situation would be much worse than it is.

 Resources!

The local Government provides very basic health care and advice to the street children, but that’s about the only regular resource available. Most other resources are from voluntary sources, particularly food, time and love.

What kind of skills do I need? 

If you care about the plight of these kids that in itself maybe enough to help, but if you can empathise, show love, understanding and concern then even better.

It is a sad fact that many hundreds of thousands of children live on the streets in Brazil. They have to learn to fend for themselves, most days searching for food in garbage bins! Of course without proper nutrition and sanitary places, street children are most vulnerable to food poisoning, infections and many other health problems. Some older children find themselves on the wrong side of the law and are forced to deal in drugs. Over 500,000 young girls are forced into prostitution, and sexual activity amongst street children is often unprotected, it is most clear why this project needs help from volunteers

Your Role as a volunteer

You will be working with a team of volunteers and some specialist government workers. You will be distributing food and clothing, helping with the younger children, helping with hygiene, playing games, and giving lots of love, affection and hope to children who deserve better. You will leave them with dignity, hope and self respect. Are you up for it?

Accommodation

You may select to stay in a small hotel, or in a homestay with a Brazilian family (hotel is subject to availability, and may incur an additional cost).Your location will be either Recife, Olinda , Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo or Fortaleza, if you have a preference, please tell us.