Colombia’s child-friendly spaces: from emergency relief to community-led care
In the arid border towns of La Guajira, Colombia, thousands of Venezuelan families have sought refuge, carrying stories of hardship and hope. Among them are children like *Diego, *Valeria, and countless others who have found food, safety, learning, and healing in the child-friendly spaces supported by SOS Children’s Villages Colombia.
The Ekira Project
The initiative addresses the urgent needs of children, young people and families in vulnerable communities in Colombia, especially those facing extreme poverty, displacement, and a lack of safe spaces.
Since January, over 1,500 children, young people, and caregivers affected by the migration and humanitarian crisis in Venezuela have been supported across five municipalities in La Guajira. Through nurturing environments and vital food assistance, the project is building resilience, strengthening families, and restoring children’s sense of stability while fostering community bonds that last beyond the crisis response.
Diego’s only meal of the day
Diego, 10, a participant at the child-friendly space in Riohacha, tells us:
“Sometimes, the snack I get here is the only meal I have all day, and when I eat, I feel more energy to play, write, and think better.”
Diego, who migrated from Venezuela with his mother and two younger brothers, illustrates how food and emotional wellbeing are deeply intertwined. The child-friendly spaces offer him more than nutrition; they create a place where he feels valued and cared for.
“We learn that we have rights and must take care of ourselves and each other. I want to keep coming here because I feel safe. I like that they listen to me and that I matter. When I grow up, I want to help other kids like me, so they don’t go without food and so they know that they matter too.”
A lifeline for families in crisis
For Daini, a migrant mother who left Venezuela in search of opportunities and stability, the project is both a practical and an emotional anchor. The child-friendly space gives her peace of mind, knowing her children are protected, learning, and happy.
“The snack is nutritious, varied, and often the only secure meal my children have all day,” she says.
Daily healthy meals are a critical intervention for improving children's nutritional status, boosting participation in educational and emotional resilience activities, and creating a deeper sense of belonging. For many families, it’s the only dependable source of nourishment.
Valeria’s favourite part of the day
“I’m always excited to see what we’re getting!”
Valeria, 9, who attends the La Pista child-friendly space in Maicao, lights up when she talks about her favourite part of the day: the snack.
“Sometimes they give us things we’ve never had at home, like hot dogs or pizza, especially on special days. Those are the best!”
But it’s not just about treats. Valeria loves the math games, the warm-hearted caregivers, and the freedom to ask questions and be herself.
“I like coming here because I feel safe, learn things that help me, and have fun.”
Her excitement shows how joy and nourishment go hand in hand, helping children to regain confidence, learn, and thrive.
Beyond nutrition: building a culture of protection
While food is a cornerstone, the Ekira Project’s impact extends far deeper. The child-friendly spaces offer structured play-based activities that teach emotional literacy, conflict resolution, and self-protection. Children learn to express their feelings, recognize risks, and advocate for themselves.
Young people are especially encouraged to take active roles in their communities, while parents and local leaders participate in workshops to strengthen family bonds and community-based child protection systems.
Despite challenges like irregular attendance, high family mobility, and limited resources, the project has adapted by conducting home visits, creating flexible schedules, and empowering communities to co-create and maintain these spaces.
What began as an emergency response is evolving into a community-led model of care, where children are more secure, families are more resilient, and neighbourhoods are more connected.
A future built on care
Through the voices of Diego, Daini, and Valeria, we see how child-friendly spaces are helping children feel seen and supported, restoring normalcy, dignity, and hope.
In the months ahead, SOS Children’s Villages Colombia will continue expanding these spaces, strengthening nutritional support, and engaging families and communities to sustain local care systems.
While challenges in La Guajira remain, the Ekira Project stands as a commitment to protecting children’s rights and building a future rooted in care and shared responsibility. Even the smallest gestures ̶ a snack, a smile, or a safe place to play ̶ can plant the seeds of healing and hope.
How you can help
We thank Christadelphian Meal-a-Day Americas for their generous support.
Around the world, too many children face hunger every day. Your support helps provide nutritious food and the care they need to grow up healthy.
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*Names changed to protect privacy.