A place to learn, grow, and belong: Helping children feel safe in Colombia
In La Guajira, Colombia, many children and families are navigating the challenges of migration, poverty, and limited access to basic services. For children, this can mean disrupted education, food insecurity, and nowhere safe to learn or play.
SOS Children’s Villages Colombia is helping to change that.
In Riohacha and Maicao, child-friendly spaces offer children a safe and welcoming place where they can learn, build relationships, and begin to feel secure again. Through education, emotional support, and nutrition, these spaces help children regain a sense of stability and hope.
Gabriela*, 10, arrived in Colombia with her family after leaving Venezuela in search of safety and stability.
When they settled in La Guajira, everything was uncertain. But discovering SOS Children’s Villages changed her daily life.
“I really enjoy participating because we do activities that teach me to share, respect others, and express what I feel. We’ve also learned about caring for the environment, the importance of studying, and dreaming about a better future. I feel happy because I can play, learn, and spend time with other boys and girls who, like me, came from different places, and now we’re like one big family.”
For Gabriela, one of the most important parts of the program is something many children lack – a reliable, nutritious daily meal.
“One of the things I like most is receiving the snacks, because they are delicious and nutritious. Thanks to those meals, I feel more energized to study and participate in activities. Before, I would often get hungry during the day.”
In many cases, these meals and snacks are the most consistent source of daily nutrition for the children, helping improve both their health and their ability to focus and learn.
But for Gabriela, the impact goes beyond meeting immediate needs.
“The project helps me not only with food but also with my personal growth. I’ve learned that education and solidarity are important. I’m very thankful because they’ve taught me there’s always hope to move forward.”
Building confidence and leadership
For older children, the program creates opportunities to take on new roles and build confidence.
Natalia*, 16, recently joined a child-friendly space in Maicao. What began as participation quickly grew into leadership.
Today, Natalia is supporting activities and helping younger children learn.
“I’ve learned about the rights of children and adolescents and how we should protect them. I’ve also had the opportunity to support the teachers with activities, and that has helped me grow as a person and as a young leader.”
In the child-friendly spaces, children and adolescents take part in activities that support:
- Emotional wellbeing, helping children understand and express their feelings
- Protection and rights awareness, empowering them to stay safe and support others
- Social connection, building friendships and a sense of belonging
Natalia also highlights the importance of nutrition: “We receive a snack that is both delicious and nutritious, and it often complements the meals we have at home.”
More than a program, a foundation for the future
SOS Children’s Villages takes a holistic approach to supporting children and families. Alongside activities for children, SOS Children’s Villages works with caregivers and communities through:
- Parenting and nutrition workshops
- Psychosocial support
- Child protection training
- Community engagement and advocacy
This integrated approach helps create safer, more supportive environments where children can continue to grow and thrive.
Why your support matters
Children like Gabriella and Natalia are building brighter futures, but they cannot do it alone.
Your support helps ensure that more children have access to safe spaces, nutritious food, and the opportunities they need to reach their full potential.
We thank the Christadelphian Meal-a-Day Fund for their generous support.
*Names changed to protect privacy.