, ,

Organizations Helping to Reduce Poverty in Malta

Poverty in MaltaMalta is an island nation in the Mediterranean Sea, lying between North Africa and Sicily in southern Europe. The capital of Malta, Valletta, is the smallest in Europe in terms of geography and population. In the past decade, the minimum wage in Malta has risen by 29%, yet rising living costs have left one in five people at risk of poverty.

Without significant government action, such as raising the minimum wage by more than the current average of 3% annually, this number might grow significantly in the next 10 years. To address this issue, numerous charities and organizations across the country focus on combating poverty through various initiatives, including alleviating food insecurity and providing educational services. Here are five charities and nonprofit organizations helping to reduce poverty in Malta.

Foodbank Lifeline Foundation

Established in 2018 by Reverend Kim Hurst, the organization started as an unofficial program to feed roughly 30 families that attended Saint Andrew’s Scots Church in Valletta. Due to the rising demand for food, Hurst formed the organization to help combat food insecurity throughout Malta. The organization relies on food donations and distributes the food in parcels on the islands of Malta and Gozo. Currently, the Foodbank Lifeline Foundation provides much-needed food security to more than 300 families in Malta and Gozo.

Foundation for Educational Services

Created in 2001 by Malta’s Ministry for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation, the organization provides various child care services across Malta. The initiative currently operates 13 childcare centers across Malta, aiming to give babies and toddlers a chance to develop a lifetime of learning in a fun, caring and stimulating environment. Foundation for Educational Services also provides various after-school programs for children on the islands of Malta and Gozo whose parents are at work.

Malta Foundation for the Well-Being of Society

Formed in 2014 by the then-president of Malta, Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, the organization primarily focuses on fostering child participation in Maltese life. The organization does this through various projects, like The Right to Play and “The Children’s Manifesto.” In addition to these projects, the organization has established “Children’s Councils” throughout Malta, where children have a voice in their local communities.

Aditus

Established in 2011 by Neil Falzon, Nicola Mallia and Carla Camilleri, the organization primarily focuses on human rights in Malta. Aditus is “called on to monitor, report and act on access to human rights in Malta.” The organization works on projects and campaigns that revolve around migration and transition into life in Malta, like the #DontLetThemDrown hashtag campaign. In addition, the organization campaigns throughout Malta on issues like housing accommodations for those at risk of poverty and rights for undocumented people and families in Malta.

Caritas Malta

Founded in 1968, the organization focuses on charity and volunteer work for Malta’s impoverished citizens. Its most successful project, “New Hope,” focuses heavily on substance abuse and rehabilitation, family services and a prison inmate program.

However, the organization also provides other forms of social welfare, including employment assistance programs and counseling. The organization researches and outlines the various ways people live in poverty in Malta and details how the cost of living in Malta impacts all facets of Maltese life through its reports.

Conclusion

These five charities and nonprofit organizations are, among many others, dedicated to reducing poverty in Malta. Despite the challenges faced by some, the people of Malta have demonstrated a strong sense of community, working together to support and uplift one another.

– Julius Millan

Julius is based in New York, NY, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

,

Addressing Health Initiatives With Oxfam in South Sudan

Addressing Health Initiatives With Oxfam in South SudanSouth Sudan is a country facing significant challenges due to ongoing conflict and instability. To address this, Oxfam is supporting health and nutrition initiatives that significantly benefit communities in South Sudan. This organization has been active in Sudan for more than 30 years and is helping families rebuild their lives. After becoming an independent state just over a decade ago, South Sudan became caught in conflict when war arose in Juba in 2013, becoming one of the many new hosts of 2.5 million refugees living in poverty.

Taking Action

Oxfam’s health interventions include installing wells remote water and sanitation stations, increasing food security and protecting land rights and natural resources, particularly for farmers. Oxfam has provided aid by distributing food to more than 415,000 individuals and helping more than 140,000 people reach clean water and sanitation stations throughout their time in the country. 

It is increasing access to these resources by prioritizing the islands closest to Nyal, where a majority of families are coming from. To support the influx of people coming in, Oxfam provides emergency services to communities by increasing gardens, water storage points, bathing facilities and providing cooking and farming supplies. This empowers communities to rebuild their livelihoods to support their families long-term. The number of refugees seeking aid in the country has increased 10 times since gaining independence, reaching about 107,000 people in 2012.

Hunger

In addition to an increase in refugees, more than half of the population of South Sudan already lives in extreme hunger. The state relies heavily on imported foods and with the impact of border conflicts making imports less accessible, inflation is at a high. Increasing food prices make it more difficult for people to feed their families, increasing widespread famine and malnutrition. Not only does Oxfam provide families with the tools necessary to restabilize, but it also teaches them efficient farming and planting techniques. These processes could improve their crop yield and soil fertility, ensuring successful food production for future generations. 

Impact of Flooding in South Sudan

The country has faced severe floods for consecutive years since 2018, now leaving approximately 70% of the country covered in water. This destroys homes, farmland, schools and health centers and washes away roads, making transportation and importation incredibly difficult. Due to heavy periods of rainfall, flooding disperses and does not permeate the already saturated soil, making large portions of land inaccessible. This increases displacement as communities lose their homes, farmland and livestock. In turn, this increases the number of individuals requiring food, shelter, clean water and medical aid, increasing Oxfam initiatives throughout the entire country. 

Canoe Vouchers

A town in South Sudan that has been especially welcoming to refugees, Nyal, has become home to many individuals searching for food and shelter. Through support from Oxfam and Irish Aid, the community offers canoe transportation to and from Nyal based on a free voucher system to help displaced individuals access food and medical care. Traveling by foot is considered unsafe for women, making canoe transportation the more efficient and protected route, taking about three days to cross the swamps. This program also provides jobs for community members, allowing both men and women to establish a stable income to support their families for the first time since 2013. 

Supporting Women

Oxfam is specifically addressing issues of under-reported instances of sexual violence against women in South Sudan. In heightened periods of conflict, sexual exploitation is used as a war tool and is often overlooked regarding the outcomes of war. Oxfam is creating safe spaces to offer medical aid and educate women about their rights. Women are encouraged to find a sense of community among each other and to feel empowered to ensure their rights are not violated. 

At the Jamam camp located in the Upper Nile region, Oxfam conducted research to ensure safe and clean access to water collection points and lavatory facilities. A survey revealed that more than 10% of women felt there was not enough privacy in public restrooms, Oxfam increased separation and staffing, prioritizing the safety and wellbeing of these women. Prioritizing privacy as well as sanitation also helps prevent the spread of diseases. Staff is constantly reviewing feedback and comments from community members on how these resources can be improved. 

Overall Impact in South Sudan

These ongoing efforts increase community resilience, improve health and reduce poverty. Oxfam is critical in on-ground relief for refugees and struggling communities in Sudan and regions across southern Africa. Oxfam supports more than 500,000 individuals in these areas with long-term and emergency care. It is actively working to provide access to clean water and sanitation for 90,000 people in South Sudan and is working to reach a goal of $7 million to expand its reach to aid 400,000 people. The organization has been incredibly successful in addressing health concerns and rising poverty levels through life-saving initiatives with Oxfam in South Sudan. These major efforts providing health aid to those displaced have been incredibly beneficial to families looking to reestablish their communities and stability in uncertain times.

– Lauren Sellman

Lauren is based in Rochester Hills, MI, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, , ,

Organizations Supporting Rice Farming in Vietnam

Charities Aid Rice Farmers in VietnamVietnam, which has seen a rapid reduction in poverty, decreased its poverty rate from 16.8% to below 5% over the last decade, lifting more than 10 million people out of extreme poverty. The country attributes much of this success to rapid employment growth and development in labor-intensive export sectors, including rice production.

The country ranks as the third largest producer and exporter of rice, with the crop occupying 82% of the country’s arable land. Despite significant strides in poverty reduction, rural areas, particularly in the Red River and Mekong deltas, continue to struggle with high rates of child poverty. Smallholder farmers in these regions rely heavily on rice for their livelihoods, yet they represent about 80% of Vietnam’s remaining poor population.

Numerous organizations and charities are crucial in providing education and resources to these farmers, enhancing their living standards and helping eradicate rural poverty. The drastic transformation in agriculture has fueled economic changes and significantly contributed to the reduction of poverty in Vietnam.

World Bank

The Vietnam Sustainable Agriculture Transformation Project (VnSAT) is boosting farmers by advancing sustainable rice farming techniques through improved knowledge and resources. The project includes restructuring initiatives such as training courses, building infrastructure like electricity and accessible roads and deploying new equipment. Particularly active in the impoverished Mekong Delta region, VnSAT has enabled farmers to cut their input use by 50% and increase their earnings by an average of 30%. With 62.9% of the population benefitting from its efforts, VnSAT has proven to be a major success. Reducing input and resource use is critical for lowering costs for smallholder farmers, especially as prices for fuel, pesticides and fertilizers continue to rise, which puts farmers under increasing pressure to boost production.

RIKOLTO

Rikolto, an independent international NGO, supports smallholder farmers in Vietnam by focusing on rural poverty alleviation and promoting a sustainable, inclusive rice sector. The organization aims to ensure food security for future generations in a climate-friendly way. Its operations rest on three pillars: increasing rice productivity sustainably, promoting market inclusivity for independent farmers and strengthening governance through multi-stakeholder platforms to influence policies. Rikolto has successfully introduced Sustainable Rice Platform (SRP) production practices to 3,000 farmers by 2023, reducing production costs by 12%. Additionally, the organization enhances women’s involvement in decision-making and pilots new rice farming techniques to boost yield and income for smallholder farmers in Vietnam.

IFAD

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) collaborates with partners and the Vietnamese government to help the country’s poorest people, especially ethnic minorities, women and independent farmers, overcome extreme poverty. The rural poor often face limited access to services, transportation and resources and are particularly vulnerable to natural disasters and changing weather patterns. IFAD’s strategy promotes participation, strengthens institutional capacity and builds partnerships to enhance living standards and reduce poverty among the most vulnerable groups in Vietnam.

The Pro-Poor Partnership for Agroforestry Development Project focuses on upland farmers in northern Vietnam’s poorest areas. These farmers face challenges due to limited agricultural land, mountainous terrain and underdeveloped forestry resources, which are crucial for their food security and income. The project enhances equity in forest land allocation, develops hillside farming systems and diversifies income-generating opportunities to support these communities.

Looking Ahead

Vietnam’s rural farmers face daily challenges in combating poverty, but with support from various organizations and charities, they are integrating into a broader, more inclusive society. This integration supports sustainable farming practices that provide food and income for rice farmers. By 2050, the global population is expected to exceed 9.6 billion, necessitating a 50% increase in global food production to ensure worldwide food security. Family farms, which produce 70% of the world’s food, play a crucial role in maintaining these essential agricultural practices for the global population.

– Sofia Bowes

Sofia is based on the Isle Of Skye and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Sofia Bowes

, ,

Children in Poverty: 5 Stories From La Esperanza Granada

Children in Poverty: 5 Stories From La Esperanza Granada In Nicaragua, La Esperanza Granada, a charity established in 2002, supports more than 400 children on the outskirts of Granada. Collaborating with the Ministry of Education and local communities, the organization educates young people and children on valuable life skills. Furthermore, they provide resources to help break the cycle of poverty. La Esperanza Granada assists children by supplying school uniforms, textbooks, sanitary items, mentoring and bicycles, fostering a community that prioritizes education and nurtures high self-esteem and robust support systems. Here are five stories from La Esperanza Granada’s recent efforts to aid children in poverty in Nicaragua.

Vision Exams

Sept. 2024 marks the second year that La Esperanza Granada has provided vision exams for children in its organization, offering free glasses to those who could not afford them. This initiative aims to enhance the children’s quality of life by prioritizing their health and functional development. It also boosts their confidence and self-esteem, as they can now fully participate in school activities with new, stylish glasses they selected themselves.

Musical Performances

Younger children from Escudo Learning Centre and a sister organization collaborated on an artistic performance, captivating an audience with their newly developed skills. Under the guidance of instructors from Fundación LO CREO, these young learners participated in singing and flute lessons, honing their artistic abilities and creativity. After months of preparation, they showcased their talents in a musical performance, which fostered essential developmental skills such as discipline, cooperation and self-confidence.

Entrepreneurial Workshops

La Esperanza Granada organized an entrepreneurial workshop for university students to foster innovation and offer a platform for their entrepreneurial ideas. Business owners from diverse fields, including honey production, handicraft creation, fruit liqueur production, leather-based safety products and wildlife breeding, led the workshop. They shared their successes and failures, providing students with realistic business insights and stimulating creative entrepreneurial thinking. These personal stories from business owners not only motivated the students but also facilitated networking. Furthermore, the students were encouraged to seek advice and make connections with experienced entrepreneurs.

Engaging Lessons

At La Esperanza Granada’s learning centers, young children engage with English lessons through Duolingo. The interactive app enhances reading, writing and speaking skills. This approach not only makes learning enjoyable but also equips students with language skills that can improve their educational and employment prospects. The centers provide tablets for these lessons, offering students essential technological skills and making classes more dynamic. Such engaging educational experiences help retain children in schools where they benefit from strong support and a sense of community.

Pulps and Nectars

On August 7, 2024, young educators from La Esperanza Granada attended skill workshops at the Sabaneta Learning Centre. The workshops focused on creating fruit-based nectars and pulps. Led by MEFCA, the workshop provided practical education on extracting pulps and nectars.  Additionally, the workshops include specific procedures for pollutant elimination and cutting techniques to ensure product quality. This training enriched students with entrepreneurial ideas and practical knowledge, enhancing their collaboration skills. Such initiatives are crucial as they provide valuable skills that can generate income, helping to break down barriers of poverty.

Looking Ahead

La Esperanza Granada continues to make significant strides in supporting the youth in Nicaragua. The organization provides crucial resources and skills to break the cycle of poverty. Indeed, their diverse programs, from vision exams to entrepreneurial workshops, not only enhance educational opportunities but also empower children and young adults to improve their futures. These ongoing efforts highlight the charity’s commitment to fostering a more equitable environment for the communities on the outskirts of Granada.

– Chelsey Saya McLeod

Chelsey is based in Southampton, Hampshire, UK and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

5 Charities Operating in Brazil

Charities Operating in BrazilBrazil, the largest nation in South America, boasts a population of more than 200 million and a GDP of more than $2 trillion. However, despite such a promising economy, it remains an extremely unequal nation in terms of income, with Oxfam citing that the richest 5% of the country have as much income as the remaining 95%. Factors such as lack of access to housing or education have only served to widen the gap between rich and poor. Poverty disproportionately affects women, Afro-Brazilians and Indigenous communities due to wage inequality. Here are five charities operating in Brazil that work to combat the various social problems facing the country.

The Lemann Foundation

Limited access to education is a problem that affects a significant proportion of Brazil’s population; 48% of the nation’s children reach age 10 without ability to read, whilst total illiteracy rates reach as high as 80% in the most deprived areas. The Lemann Foundation combats “learning poverty” by working to ensure children and young people in Brazil have access to high-quality education. It collaborates with more than 15,000 schools, provides teachers and local governments with relevant resources and helps produce online learning material to ensure those in deprived areas are still able to achieve strong academic qualifications. The Lemann Foundation also notes the particular educational exclusion of Indigenous and Afro-Brazilian communities and stresses the importance of quality education in building a progressive and equal society.

The Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD)

Founded in 1960 as the official aid department of the English and Welsh Catholic Church, CAFOD’s work in Brazil focuses on providing aid to those dealing with homelessness in São Paulo, the country’s most populous city. With an estimated homeless population of up to 50,000 in 2023, the number of residents sleeping rough has increased by 31% since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The CAFOD combats this by supporting those living in unsanitary housing conditions by ensuring they have access to clean water and basic health care. It also recognises the disproportionate impact poverty has on Indigenous groups in Brazil, so works to ensure these groups have access to education and employment opportunities.

The Favela Foundation

Favelas are slums or impoverished areas often located on the outskirts of Brazil’s larger cities. The Favela Foundation is one of the charities operating in Brazil that focuses its support on the residents of these neighborhoods. The organization raises money for local NGOs that provide educational opportunities such as English lessons, as speaking English can often ensure access to better employment.

Revive International

Founded in 2012, Revive is one of the charities operating in Brazil that works in the North East of the country, focusing on supporting children who have been victims of abuse or trafficking. As poverty and homelessness put young people more at risk of exploitation, Reviva runs safe houses for those in unsafe domestic conditions, alongside a fostering service for younger children to ensure they receive a safe upbringing.

ActionAid

This U.K.-based charity has been working in Brazil for more than 25 years and supports a wide range of communities and initiatives across the country. The organization’s principal goal is the support and protect young girls from exploitation, for example through organizing educational services or sports activities. However, ActionAid also assists those facing other issues, such as providing resources to rural Brazilians in drought-stricken areas to ensure they can still grow food. In total, it has worked with over 300,000 people to help improve lives in the country.

Although the country faces disproportionately high levels of poverty and inequality, these charities operating in Brazil are working to improve the lives of its impoverished citizens. Both local and wide-ranging international organizations provide support within the country to support those dealing with a vast variety of issues such as homelessness, learning poverty, gender-based violence and environmental changes.

– Izzy Tompkins

Izzy is based in Leeds, UK and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

HAUP and CORA Supporting The Haitian Community

HAUPHaiti is a low-income Caribbean country with a population of more than 11 million people. More than half of the population lives below the poverty line with little access to necessities. A major historical period that hindered Haiti’s growth was the Duvalier regime from 1957 to 1986. François Duvalier’s and Jean-Claude Duvalier’s corruption drained Haiti of its financial and economic profits. Their extreme violence against many citizens of the Haitian community caused an estimated 30,000 people to die or go missing.

The Haitian Americans United for Progress (HAUP) played a major role in supporting Haitian refugees and the Haitian-American community during the horrors of the Duvalier regime and continues to help immigrants and migrants, whether they are Haitian or not. Coalition for the Recovery of L’Anse-à-Veau (CORA), on the other hand, focuses on directly helping the community of Anse-à-Veau (Ansavo), one of Haiti’s municipalities located in the Nippes department.

HAUP

HAUP is a nonprofit organization based in Queens and Brooklyn, New York, U.S., that was initially established as a volunteer-based organization to help Haitian immigrants and refugees in 1975. In the ’80s, HAUP helped hundreds of Haitian refugees obtain food, shelter, clothing, and employment. Since then, HAUP has expanded into a community center that provides immigration, educational, and health services for refugees and immigrants in New York City, New Jersey, and Connecticut. The nonprofit has distributed 71 baby bags and infant car seats, 20 brand-new strollers for newborn mothers, 47 baby monitors, 30 blood pressure monitors, and more than 400 boxes of diapers and wipes.

Advocating for Immigrants and Migrants

In 1979, HAUP organized a konbit (rally) to gather materials and visit prisons to support Haitian refugees. By 1981, it held a march in Washington, D.C., protesting the U.S. government’s treatment of Haitian refugees and opposing Haiti’s dictatorship. In an interview with The Borgen Project, Mrs. Marie Fouche, recalled her role in organizing these protests: “The political situation in Haiti pushed us to march. I remember horses charging at us while we demanded our rights as Haitians. We said, ‘We don’t want a dictator anymore!'” Fouche also shared how HAUP advocated for Haitian refugees sent to Guantanamo Bay, fighting for their rights and offering assistance.

Events to Unify the Haitian Community

In 1978, HAUP held its first summer camp at P.S. 147 and later hosted camps at Andrew Jackson, Elmhurst, and Sacred Heart Church. In 1985, HAUP officially opened its Information Center. Fouche, a HAUP executive board member for 20 years, reflected on the center: “We had conferences, we had people come from Canada, from Haiti, from everywhere. They delivered a workshop or talked about their books about what was happening in the country. . . And we had books from Haiti, people could come and see them, even foreigners who didn’t know about Haiti could find resources there. So for me, that was a moment of pride.”

HAUP established a senior citizens club and a children’s cultural dance program and provided services for kids with intellectual disabilities. It also sponsored cultural events for the Haitian-American community, allowing them to express their culture and for children to learn more about Haiti. These events included Carnival parties, fundraising galas, children’s festivals, film showings like Gouverneur de la Rosée at Hillcrest High School, and plays such as Filibé by Mercedes Guignard and Bwat Lamayòt by Marika Roumain, produced by Fouche in 1985 and 1995.

CORA

In 2009, Kora, Cosa, and ARCA united to mobilize Anse-à-Velais and supporters of Anse-à-Veau in promoting the development of Anse-à-Veau and its neighboring areas. These groups merged to form CORA. CORA has helped clean the gutters in the lower area of Ansavo after the 2010 flood and provided $1,000 for the committee in charge of the works. It has also supported repairing the city’s electrical network by financially supporting maintenance from Port-au-Prince technicians and using $2,700 to buy two transformers. The nonprofit has also donated resources to institutions in Ansavo, such as 10 wheelchairs to the local hospital and nearby dispensaries and wireless microphones to the Ansavo cathedral.

Educational Programs

CORA’s RenesAnsavo Hospitality and Tourism project, launched in the summer of 2014 and led by Fouche, provided four weeks of training for 30 young adults from Ansavo. Inspired by Ansavo’s upcoming 300th anniversary in 2021, the students were divided into five groups focused on tourism, transportation, food, housing, and more. They attended workshops in the mornings and did fieldwork in the afternoons, such as assessing local restaurants and hotels for tourism opportunities. The project continued in 2015, with CORA following up on the participants’ progress through 2017.

CORA also advocated for school gardens by surveying schools in Petit Goave, leading to the start of a garden in the 2023-2024 academic year. Fouche discussed her work with the program and how her experience gardening for a soup kitchen in Arbor Hill, Albany, helped her with the Ansavo garden. She shared, “I learned from a woman at the soup kitchen… I researched gardening online and taught the children about fruits and vegetables in French, Creole, and English.” Her local and international volunteer work highlights how domestic and foreign aid initiatives can complement each other.

Conclusion

Fouche’s work with HAUP, CORA, and the Albany soup kitchen exemplifies how one can balance helping those in need both locally and abroad. HAUP highlights the importance of community-building and how immigrants in places like America can still influence their home countries, as seen in their protests against Haiti’s dictatorship. It also shows how immigrants can stay connected to their culture by organizing cultural events, such as plays, and creating educational spaces like the Information Center.

CORA exemplifies how to directly assist vulnerable communities abroad by prioritizing education, as seen with the school garden initiative. While both CORA and HAUP have made strides in uplifting the Haitian community, much work remains, and both organizations could benefit from additional support.

– Elisabeth Nwaoskwa

Elisabeth is based in Bellerose, NY, USA and focuses on Good News and World in Focus for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

, ,

5 Charities Operating in Bulgaria

Charities Operating in Bulgaria
There are several charities operating in Bulgaria that address the poverty challenges it faces. In 2007, the Republic of Bulgaria joined the European Union alongside Romania. Today, however, it is the poorest member with the lowest Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and since 2020, the country has been troubled by political instability, with governmental coalitions collapsing. There have been six parliamentary elections between 2021 and 2024 – a seventh election already in sight. This political uncertainty impacts Bulgaria’s access to EU funds while also slowing its mission to fully join the Schengen area and adopt the euro as its currency. 

According to UNICEF’s “Child Poverty in the Midst of Wealth” report, more than one in four children in Bulgaria lived in poverty between 2019 and 2021, with a child poverty rate of 26.1 percent. Despite a 55% increase in efforts to reduce child poverty, there has been less than a 10% change in the poverty rate since 2012. The inadequacy of social transfers, such as family benefits and social assistance, is evident, as these payments fail to account for inflation and rising living standards. Consequently, an “economically vulnerable household” with out-of-work parents and two children will receive 17.5% of the national average wage in social transfers – without housing benefits – placing Bulgaria 37th out of 39 OECD/EU countries.

Bulgaria’s weak social protection system underscores the critical role of charities operating in Bulgaria, with 36.2% child material deprivation and 12.9 percent housing problems. These nonprofit organizations play a crucial role in improving the lives of Bulgarian citizens, and here are five charities operating in Bulgaria and combatting poverty.

Children of Bulgaria

Since 2014, the nonprofit organization Children of Bulgaria has raised funds for its annual projects to improve children’s health. The charity’s operations are crucial, with the average infant mortality rate in 2021 being 5.2 per 1,000 live births – a little less than double the EU 3.6 average for that year. Instead of simply sending capital to the recipients, Children of Bulgaria uses 98% of its donations – the remaining 2% are operating costs – to fund projects and buy the necessary equipment, thus preventing fraud and misuse of contributions.

In 2023, it delivered medical equipment to the Neonatal Ward in the Hospital of Silistra – used to help an average of 150 premature babies annually. Similarly, in 2021 and 2022, the organization focused on improving centers for autistic children since most daycares in the country are unfit for children with the disorder, and child psychiatrists are scarce. This year’s 2024 project focuses on funding four new centers for children with special needs in South-East and South-West Bulgaria, underlying the importance of inclusive childcare.

Habitat for Humanity Bulgaria

Habitat for Humanity is one of the key charities operating in Bulgaria. Since 2001, it has advocated for adequate housing – since the Bulgarian constitution does not recognize the right to housing as a fundamental human right. Nonetheless, the necessity for affordable housing is distinct, with one in three Bulgarians needing accommodation in 2022, while the country also had one of the highest overcrowding rates in the EU – 36.2% compared to an average of 16.8%. 

Habitat for Humanity Bulgaria has been fighting this struggle since 2014 by creating the Coalition “Decent Homes.” It collaborates with 36 organizations, from the municipal, business and non-governmental sectors, to better decision-making in housing policies. The nonprofit has built 12 houses and helped to more than 6,000 families find settlements in the country through partnerships with local communities and volunteers, providing affordable housing construction and enhancing accessibility to housing improvements. 

Light of Bulgaria

After the fall of communism in Bulgaria, the younger generations moved to work in the city, making Light of Bulgaria a crucial charity for the older population. Most of them still living in the mountains and forests of South-West Bulgarian on minimal pensions – 580.57 BGN per month or $330.28 USD – do not have access to social or medical care. 

Light of Bulgaria reaches more than 60 villages, providing food, clothes and medical care while also helping families who struggle with mental health problems or are victims of neglect and domestic violence. When temperatures drop below fifteen degrees in winter, the nonprofit also implements its program “The Soup,” providing nutritious food for the villagers and assisting them through their hardships. 

Trust for Social Achievement Foundation

Minorities in Bulgaria face significant disadvantages, and the Roma community is no exception. Although they are estimated to comprise around 10% of the population, many Roma do not officially declare their ethnicity due to fear of discrimination, leading to varying figures. The Roma community grapples with poverty, social exclusion and limited access to education and health care. Many Roma people live in marginalized neighborhoods with poor living conditions, where discrimination severely limits their opportunities for employment and integration into society. Furthermore, derogatory remarks from government officials, including Prime Minister Boyko Borissov, who has publicly referred to the Roma as “bad human material,” exacerbate the situation and deepen the social divide.

To face these challenges and support the Roma community, the Trust for Social Achievement Foundation has created various programs. For example, the “Continued Support for Roma Students at the American University in Bulgaria” provides financial aid, mentorship and academic support to Roma students, helping them overcome barriers in higher education. Additionally, the “Early Learning and Care” program focuses on improving early childhood education by providing access to quality learning resources and parental support, aiming to address educational disparities from a young age – with 45% of Roma children not attending preschool. These initiatives are part of broader efforts by charities operating in Bulgaria to combat systemic barriers and discrimination, improving long-term outcomes for the Roma community.

UNICEF

In 2022, the Agency for Social Assistance reported 736 cases of domestic violence in Bulgaria, with 73% involving children. ATD Fourth World, an international nonprofit focused on ending poverty, also reported on child protection in Bulgaria, highlighting the link between poverty and child abuse. Indeed, children in poverty are especially at risk of abuse and neglect because financial problems create stress and instability in families. Thus, those struggling with poverty often lack the support needed to prevent or address abuse – leading to higher rates of harm among children from marginalized communities.

In response, UNICEF Bulgaria has worked to strengthen protection for vulnerable children and families by supporting the National Programme for Prevention of Violence and Child Abuse. This program aims to create a comprehensive framework for preventing and addressing violence and abuse by integrating various services and policies. On the ground, UNICEF has directly assisted 259 children—181 girls and 178 boys—who were victims or witnesses of abuse, through the Zona ZaKrila protection centers in Sofia, Shumen, and Montana. Additionally, UNICEF’s “For Every Child, Protection from Violence and Abuse” initiative has trained 525 specialists in preventing and responding to violence against children and women, as well as in preventing sexual exploitation and abuse. These efforts are vital for fostering safer environments and ensuring that every child receives the protection and support they need to thrive.

Looking Ahead

Bulgaria’s long journey to becoming a prosperous and thriving country is far from complete, but progress has been made in the last decades. With funding from the European Union and help from charities operating in Bulgaria, the living conditions of its citizens are improving. 

– Alissa Naydenova

Alissa is based in Colchester, Essex, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Bahar Charity: Combating Child Poverty in Iran

Child Poverty in IranChild poverty remains a pressing issue in Iran, affecting the lives of countless children and families. Material poverty is particularly prevalent in Iran, with significant disparities in access to essential services and resources, particularly in rural areas. Around 30% of the Iranian population lives in poverty, which leaves many children at risk. Rural children, particularly girls, face greater barriers to accessing education, health care and adequate nutrition, creating a cycle of poverty that is difficult to break.

This widespread poverty has far-reaching implications, including limited access to quality education, health care and social services, all of which are critical for the healthy development of children. Against this backdrop, organizations like Bahar Charity, a student-run group at the University of Toronto, Canada, have stepped in to make a tangible difference in the lives of disadvantaged children in Iran.

Bahar Charity

Founded in 2016, Bahar Charity was created by a group of friends in response to a natural disaster in Iran. This event spurred them to take action. They created a platform through which they could provide meaningful support to people back in their home country. As Nafiseh Ghoroghchian, the current president of Bahar Charity, explains, “Our vision is to build bridges between the North American, especially the Iranian community and Iran… to keep awareness of the challenges back home and provide help where we can.”

The charity aims to connect the Iranian diaspora in Canada, particularly the students and alums at the University of Toronto, with communities in Iran to support children who are struggling with poverty. The organization strives to foster a sense of solidarity and empathy among young Iranian Canadians while providing tangible assistance to those in need.

Partnerships and Collaborations

One of the most significant partnerships that Bahar Charity has developed is with Paradise Charity. This registered Canadian charity has been operating since 2001. Paradise Charity collaborates with nine nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) across different provinces in Iran, identifying underprivileged children and connecting them with sponsors in Canada. This partnership has allowed Bahar Charity to reach a wider audience and bring more support to the children in need.

Through this collaboration, Bahar Charity has established a child sponsorship program. It enables donors to sponsor a child in Iran for a minimum of $30 per month. The funds are primarily used to support the child’s education but can also be allocated for other necessities, such as health care, therapy or even household needs like repairing essential appliances. As of now, Bahar Charity has successfully gathered around 40 sponsors for approximately 60 children, ensuring that they receive continuous support for their education and well-being.

Key Initiatives and Programs

Bahar Charity has developed several initiatives to bridge the gap between the Iranian community in Canada and the underprivileged communities in Iran. Some of the key programs include:

  • Child Sponsorship Program: In collaboration with Paradise Charity, Bahar Charity has facilitated a sponsorship program that provides financial aid to underprivileged children. This program focuses on supporting children who have lost a parent or come from low-income families. It ensures they have access to education and basic needs. Indeed, the charity has managed to sponsor 60 children through the contributions of around 40 sponsors, creating a sustainable source of support for these children.
  • Fundraising Campaigns: Bahar Charity has organized multiple fundraising events to provide emergency relief in times of crisis. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, it raised funds to supply oxygen tanks to low-income provinces in Iran suffering from a lack of medical supplies. Similarly, it conducted fundraising activities to support families affected by floods and other natural disasters in Iran.
  • Educational and Cultural Initiatives: Bahar Charity regularly hosts seminars, discussions and cultural events to raise awareness about the issues faced by children in Iran. These events serve to educate the broader community at the University of Toronto about Iranian culture. Additionally, they highlight the challenges faced by disadvantaged communities. Notably, it organized a photographic exhibition featuring photographs taken by underprivileged children in Iran. The event was a success, showcasing the artistic talents of the children while raising funds for their support.
  • Advocacy and Awareness: Beyond financial support, Bahar Charity is committed to raising awareness about child poverty in Iran and mobilizing support from the Iranian-Canadian community. It organizes seminars, talks and documentary screenings to foster discussions on relevant social issues, such as homelessness and education inequality in Iran. These events are open to both Iranian and non-Iranian audiences, helping to build a more inclusive community at the University of Toronto.

The Future of Child Poverty in Iran

Bahar Charity has made remarkable progress since its inception. It has built a solid partnership with Paradise Charity, established successful fundraising campaigns and developed programs that directly benefit children in need. Looking ahead, it aims to increase its volunteer base and seek more collaborations with other organizations. With more hands-on projects, such as workshops and one-on-one tutoring sessions for Iranian children, it hopes to make a more direct and meaningful impact.

– Jennifer Lee

Jennifer is based in Toronto, ON, Canada and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

4 Charities Fighting Poverty in Honduras

Charities Fighting Poverty in HondurasHonduras, located in South America, faces significant challenges related to poverty, inequality and social unrest. According to the World Bank, half of the country’s population is impoverished, with a rate of 51.3% as of 2023. Poverty has left many Hondurans struggling to meet basic needs such as food, education and health care. In response, several charities are fighting against poverty in Honduras, providing essential services and support to the most vulnerable populations.

CEPUDO Honduras

CEPUDO Honduras, one of the charities fighting poverty in Honduras, has empowered communities by providing them with the tools they need to succeed. With a mission to develop communities and eradicate extreme poverty, CEPUDO works closely to provide shelter for those in need> Furthermore, they reduce hunger through monthly aid. The organization also focuses on improving access to education and health care. By working with a network of volunteers and donor organizations (such as Food for the Poor), CEPUDO has created long-lasting change in the communities it serves.

Additionally, CEPUDO Honduras has been involved in numerous projects to cultivate integral communities nationwide. These initiatives focus on essential aspects of basic living, including agriculture, infrastructure, education and access to clean water. The organization has established 26 communities nationwide, building approximately 20 schools and 45 water wells annually. Its mission also extends to health care, where it helps construct clinics and provides medical supplies to hospitals and health centers in Honduras through its partnership with Food for the Poor.

Feed the Children

Feed the Children is an international nonprofit organization that has been active in Honduras for several years, focusing on alleviating child hunger and malnutrition. The organization’s work in Honduras is part of a broader global effort to ensure that no child goes to bed hungry. Feed the Children’s approach in Honduras involves a combination of direct food distribution, educational support and community development programs designed to address the underlying causes of hunger.

In Honduras, Feed the Children operates feeding programs that provide nutritious meals to children in schools and community centers. These meals are often the only reliable source of nutrition for many children, helping to improve their health, concentration and academic performance. Beyond feeding programs, the organization also works to empower 10 different communities in the country by teaching parents and caregivers about ways to generate income and save money, along with providing vocational training. By focusing on the well-being of children, Feed the Children is not only addressing immediate hunger but also contributing to the long-term development of communities in Honduras.

Honduras Hope

New Hampshire-based Honduras Hope is a grassroots organization dedicated to improving people’s lives in rural Honduras through health care, education and community development. Endorsed by the United Federal GiveDirect Campaign as one of America’s best charities, the organization operates in some of the country’s most impoverished and remote areas, where access to essential services is limited or nonexistent. Honduras Hope’s mission is to empower these communities by providing the resources and support needed to overcome the challenges of poverty.

One of the core components of Honduras Hope’s work is its health care initiative. The organization provides a weekly nutrition program for San Jose and Plan Grande young children. In addition to health care, Honduras Hope is deeply involved in education, providing uniforms, school supplies, scholarship support, tutoring and a supervised boarding house for students attending school via long-distance travel. Through the approach above, the organization is helping to lift entire communities out of poverty and create a brighter future for the next generation.

Action Against Hunger

In Honduras, Action Against Hunger implements programs that address acute and chronic malnutrition, ensuring that children and families have the nutrition they need to survive and thrive. The organization also responds to emergencies, such as natural disasters and food crises, by providing food aid, clean water and other essential resources. Additionally, Action Against Hunger is actively involved in advocacy, raising awareness about the root causes of Hunger and pushing for policy changes to help reduce poverty and improve food security in Honduras. Last year, the organization helped more than 150,000 people in Honduras, demonstrating its commitment to eradicating global hunger.

Conclusion

The fight against poverty in Honduras is a strenuous process. However, organizations like CEPUDO Honduras, Feed the Children, Honduras Hope and Action Against Hunger significantly improve the lives of those in need. Through their combined efforts in education, health care, nutrition and community development, these charities provide hope and opportunity to the most vulnerable populations in Honduras.

– Christian Core

Christian is based in Princeville, HI, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

MCIC Leading the Way in North Macedonia

MCICNestled in the heart of the Balkans, North Macedonia is marked by its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Yet, like many nations in the region, it grapples with significant socioeconomic challenges, including poverty, high unemployment rates and limited access to essential services such as health care and education. Despite these obstacles, several dedicated charities and organizations are making strides to improve the lives of North Macedonians. Through their focused efforts in health care, education and social inclusion, these organizations address immediate needs and lay the groundwork for long-term, equitable development.

MCIC

Established in 1993, the Macedonian Center for International Cooperation (MCIC) promotes sustainable development, civil society and democracy in North Macedonia. The organization implements a wide range of programs for poverty reduction, social inclusion and community development. MCIC’s efforts include supporting small-scale agricultural projects, advocating for improved water management and promoting gender equality and social justice.

By working with local communities and international partners, MCIC helps create opportunities for marginalized groups and contributes to the overall development of North Macedonia. Since its inception, MCIC has established more than 1,300 projects as part of 60 programs in several sectors, including health and education and immediate aid. The organization has also enhanced rural communities’ ability to address internal issues, leading to improved access to drinking water for 250 villages across the country.

SOS Children’s Villages North Macedonia

SOS Children’s Villages North Macedonia is part of the global SOS Children’s Villages network. It provides long-term care, education and family support for children without parental care or those at risk of losing it. The organization has been active in North Macedonia since 1995, focusing on creating a loving home environment for needy children.

The organization offers family-strengthening programs that support vulnerable families in maintaining stability, ensuring children can grow up in a secure environment. SOS Children’s Villages North Macedonia also provides educational support and vocational training, empowering young people to become self-reliant adults. The organization currently supports 330 adults and children, with about 160 young people attending its training.

Red Cross of the Republic of North Macedonia

The Red Cross of the Republic of North Macedonia has been vital to the country’s humanitarian efforts since its establishment in 1945. The organization provides various services, including disaster relief, health and social care and support for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, disabled and refugees. Through its extensive network of volunteers, the Red Cross delivers essential aid during emergencies, conducts blood donation drives and offers first aid training to the public.

The organization also runs various programs promoting health and well-being, such as disease prevention campaigns and mental health support services. In 2022, the Red Cross of the Republic of North Macedonia reached more than 60,000 people with its long-term services and development programs and 1,200 people with its disaster response and early recovery programs.

Project HOPE

Project HOPE has been active in North Macedonia since 1992, focusing on improving health outcomes and building resilient health care systems. The organization works closely with local partners to train health care professionals, enhance medical facilities and ensure access to essential medicines and services. Project HOPE’s efforts include addressing chronic health issues such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes and supporting maternal and child health programs.

In 2007, Project HOPE, through its Medical Re-Supply Program (SMRP), delivered $97 million “worth of essential medicines and medical supplies throughout the country.” By strengthening the health care infrastructure and empowering medical staff with the necessary skills and resources, Project HOPE is improving health care quality in North Macedonia.

Shaping a Brighter Future

In the face of significant socioeconomic challenges, these organizations exemplify the resilience and dedication needed to foster positive change in North Macedonia. Through their diverse and impactful programs, they are addressing immediate needs and laying the groundwork for long-term, equitable growth across the country. These charities empower individuals and communities by focusing on essential areas such as health care, education, social inclusion and humanitarian aid, paving the way for a more prosperous and inclusive future for all North Macedonians.

– Benjamin DeMarais

Benjamin is based in Rogers, MN, USA and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr