Archive for category: Charity

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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5 Innovative Education Programs in Haiti

5 Innovative Education Programs in Haiti Education in Haiti has faced significant challenges in recent years, from socio-economic issues to natural disasters, leaving the education system struggling to keep pace. Statistics reveal that more than 78% of students drop out after primary school and more than 40% of the population is illiterate. Most schools in Haiti are private and charge tuition, making education inaccessible for many. Only 29% of students advance to secondary school and the average age for girls dropping out is 7 years old. However, there is a positive shift occurring. Several charities have introduced education programs in Haiti that are transforming the educational landscape. Here are some innovative education programs in Haiti that have made a considerable impact.

Locally Haiti

Locally Haiti is a charity centered on community-driven, locally-led volunteer work in the Nippes region of Haiti. It manages several impactful projects, including hospitals, agriculture and women’s empowerment. A flagship educational program of the charity is St. Paul’s School, founded in 1989, which has educated more than 5,000 students from pre-K through high school. The curriculum includes basic academic subjects and emphasizes agricultural education in areas such as botany and horticulture.

Entrepreneurship also plays a critical role in the curriculum. Professor Vladimy, a St. Paul’s alum, teaches courses in business and economics, equipping students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for various career paths. St. Paul’s enrolls more than 54% female students, reflecting the school’s commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for all attendees. Locally Haiti has awarded scholarships for higher education to more than 25 students and built a school facility that doubles as a relief center and community hub, further fostering a strong connection between students and their local community.

Blue Butterfly

Blue Butterfly is an innovative charity that creates engaging and informative media programs for schools in developing countries. It blends local culture and traditions with professional consulting to produce videos tailored to the needs and interests of children. The organization produces content locally, enabling children to use their mother tongue and connect with cultural figures familiar to them. Not only is the content rigorously researched, but it is also widely distributed to reach as many children as possible.

A notable educational program from Blue Butterfly in Haiti is the video series “Lakou Kajou,” which follows a brother and sister experiencing adventures around their family’s courtyard. This program includes episodes on math, science, literacy and problem-solving. The episodes, which feature animation, Haitian fables, live-action documentaries and artwork by local Haitian artists, are designed to be accessible. Blue Butterfly also partners with Université Quisqueya in Port-au-Prince, which helps extend the charity’s reach to schools in areas with limited internet and electricity.

Summits Education

Summits Education is a charity that supports schools in remote parts of Haiti. Established in 2015, the organization is dedicated to transforming education through teacher development and community engagement. In Haiti’s Central Department, where literacy rates are particularly low, the charity operates 40 schools in an area predominantly inhabited by farmers earning around $2 a day. For many residents, education represents a pathway out of poverty, enhancing community life, health and gender equality.

Summits Education emphasizes the crucial role of teachers in education. Instead of primarily investing in buildings and supplies and allocating leftover funds for teachers, the charity prioritizes its spending on educators. It adopts a ‘whole child approach,’ ensuring every child feels supported in their environment. This approach includes intensive training for the teachers and principals of their schools. Summits Education collaborates with the Haitian Ministry of Education and together they have trained 350 administrators and educated 10,000 students, to improve education programs in Haiti.

Model School Network

In 2016, the Model School Network was established to create a sustainable solution to the problem of underperforming schools in Haiti. Furthermore, three years earlier, education representatives in Haiti had convened three networks—EFACAP-Mirebalais, BDE-Hinche and Summits Education—to develop a strategy for improving the country’s educational system. These networks formed the Model School Network.

A key initiative of this network is the Longitudinal Benchmarking and Evaluation Systems (LBES), which aims to establish a data management system to monitor and enhance learning outcomes. The project has built a skilled team of managers and field agents who collect, process and analyze data on learning outcomes. It focuses on outcome-based measures to guide educational decisions and boost student performance. By gathering this data, the Model School Network can set precise future goals. Ongoing data analysis enables accurate progress evaluation, leading to data-driven decision-making and robust long-term solutions. The mission of MSE is straightforward: to recognize the potential of children and support it fully. “As long as we all come together and commit to helping one another look in all the right directions, we will find all the answers.”

The Haiti Project

The Haiti Project is a nonprofit organization that collaborates with students from Vassar College to support six primary initiatives: Art, Education, Water Access and Purification, Reforestation and Women’s Cooperative. Based in Chermaitre, Haiti, its education program enables 250 children to access primary education and provides scholarships for 10-20 students to pursue further education. These scholarships cover food, books, housing and enrollment fees, crucial support since the nearest secondary school is a four-hour journey from the village.

This initiative began as an effort to enhance the lunch program at École St. Paul. Additionally, The Haiti Project is launching an Adult Education program proposed by the Women’s Committee. The aim is to improve adult literacy and math skills to help start small businesses or pursue further education. Beyond these, the charity is developing a range of other programs including anti-trafficking classes, a breakfast program, a summer program, a medical fund, health and sexual education and a textbook-lending library.

Looking Forward

Education in Haiti has faced significant challenges. Despite the ongoing difficulties, several organizations have implemented innovative education programs in Haiti that are making a substantial impact on the country’s educational landscape. These ongoing initiatives, ranging from locally-led schools to digital learning resources, are providing critical support to students and teachers, helping to improve educational outcomes and offering hope for a brighter future in Haiti.

– Sofia Hattiangadi

Sofia is based in New York City, NY, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Organizations Supporting Haitians in the Dominican Republic

Haitians in the Dominican RepublicIn Haiti, turmoil punctuates the past and pervades the present. Successive natural disasters and social upheavals have stunted the Caribbean nation’s development and rendered its political landscape a minefield. Chaos exploded in 2019 when an onslaught of armed gangs rose against the acting prime minister. They now occupy around 80% of the country’s capital. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reports the displacement of more than 360,000 people, 93% of whom are fleeing violence and, according to the World Bank, food insecurity has tripled since 2016. Many Haitians seek refuge in the Dominican Republic, Haiti’s comparatively stable neighbor. However, deeply entrenched hostilities, inflamed by this recent surge of immigration, await them across the border. Therefore, many international organizations and local charities have taken action, fervently supporting Haitians in the Dominican Republic.

A Population in Crisis

The tensions straining the island of Hispaniola, which Haiti and the Dominican Republic share, can be traced back to its complex colonial past and reached boiling point during the virulently anti-Haitian regime of Rafael Trujillo, a dictator who ruled the Dominican Republic from 1930 until 1961. Today, Haitians exist largely on the periphery of Dominican society, according to the Minority Rights Group.

Amid the violence in Haiti, organizations such as the United Nations (U.N.) and Amnesty International have expressed their concern over the forced deportation of Haitians from the Dominican Republic, including asylum seekers, pregnant women and unaccompanied children. They have also spoken out against reports of racial profiling and xenophobia on the part of authorities.

Moreover, Dominicans of Haitian descent are often highly vulnerable to poverty and exploitation. A 2013 law revoked the nationality of all Dominicans born to undocumented parents, rendering generations of people stateless overnight. In 2014, the government introduced a citizenship reclamation process. However, an estimated 130,000 people remained barred from legal work, education and property ownership as of 2023.

Haitians and Haitian Dominicans lacking civil status are heavily concentrated in “Bateyes,” isolated rural settlements once erected around sugar plantations to house Haitian migrant workers. These marginalized communities lack basic resources and are paralyzed by chronic insecurity. However, there are numerous nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) that support Haitians and Dominican descendants of Haitian migration.

Project Esperanza

Project Esperanza, a charity based in Puerto Plata, a city in the Dominican Republic, facilitates the integration of Haitian refugee and immigrant children into Dominican society through education. Its vision is self-sustaining empowerment for vulnerable Haitian families engulfed in poverty.

The organization operates two schools where teachers from various cultural backgrounds deliver elementary-level education in Haitian Creole and Spanish, giving students a basis for engagement in Dominican life.

Given that many of these young people have not attended school regularly, Project Esperanza operates a specific program for older students, allowing them to access the essential knowledge they have thus far been excluded from. The organization also runs a six-week summer program where students develop their English skills alongside native speakers. Tourism is central to the local economy, so this initiative multiplies their prospects.

ASCALA

ASCALA is another NGO working across the country’s Eastern Region. It advocates for the rights of immigrants and refugees by offering legal advice, representation, assistance with obtaining residency or citizenship and preparing necessary documentation. Furthermore, the NGO works with state and civil societies to develop education-based initiatives to equip adults and children with the necessary literary level to participate in Dominican society.

ASCALA also provides social services such as counseling and support navigating health services. Another of ASCALA’s focuses is food insecurity within the country’s borders. It supports food and income-generating family and community gardens. It helps to organize “solidarity markets,” where essential products can be accessed at low prices.

Batey Relief Alliance

Another nonprofit supporting Haitians in the Dominican Republic is the Batey Relief Alliance (BRA), a U.S. charity established in 1997 to bridge the socioeconomic gulf dividing Dominican Bateyes from the rest of society. It has since expanded into several American countries, aiding 2.5 million people. BRA established its clean water initiative in 2006 to combat the spread of water-borne infections in impoverished rural enclaves lacking sufficient WASH infrastructure. To date, it has installed 19 water systems supplying 70,000 families. Similarly, it has distributed more than 23 million water purifier sachets across three countries, including the Dominican Republic.

In 2006, the charity installed the first modern health center in a Dominican hospital, serving more than 35,000 patients yearly. The charge of the center shifted to the Dominican Ministry of Health in 2017 and it continues to serve vulnerable populations. Furthermore, the “Women Empowerment” program, established in 2018, fosters community development by delivering vocational training and microloans to rural women. So far, the organization has engaged 850 women in agriculture-based economic activity, benefiting 25,000 people in Dominican Bateyes and Haiti’s border regions.

Looking Ahead

As the crisis in Haiti unfolds, binational tensions are keenly felt by those who seek safety in the Dominican Republic. Many organizations are therefore advocating for and supporting Haitians who find themselves impacted. Working from various angles and on differing scales, they are united in their common commitment to peace and compassion.

– Leila Powles

Leila is based in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, UK and focuses on Global Health and World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr