Archive for category: Nonprofit Organizations and NGOs

Information and stories about nonprofit organizations and NGOs

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How The New York Times Communities Fund Fights Global Poverty

New York Times Communities FundThe New York Times Communities Fund has supported global poverty reduction efforts for more than 100 years. Since The Fund’s establishment in 1911, it has raised more than $354 million. Currently, the nonprofit organization helps more than 1.5 million people yearly.

How It Works

Originally known as The Neediest Cases Fund, The New York Times Communities Fund annually raises money for thoroughly selected nonprofits with local to global impacts. The 113th campaign supports nonprofits such as First Book, which provides underserved schools across the U.S. with reading materials and the Campaign for Female Education (CAMFED), which promotes female education in rural Africa.

CAMFED

In 1993, Ann Cotton OBE founded CAMFED, aiming to drastically increase the number of girls in rural Africa who complete secondary school. Poverty prevents an astounding 95% of girls in this region from finishing school. CAMFED combats the social and financial barriers these girls face to not only allow them to stay in school but to blossom.

CAMFED increases a girl’s accessibility to education in several thoughtful ways. The organization pays school fees and provides girls’ uniforms, books and bicycles, helping young girls combat financial restraints. CAMFED also trains teachers and peer mentors to provide girls with social support, making them more likely to stay in school. After graduating, the girls will have access to finance, support and business training from CAMFED to ensure their success and ability to pass on their knowledge to the next generation.

Since 1993, CAMFED has aided the schooling of 7.2 million children, including 2.2 million girls completing secondary school, from the most deprived regions in Ghana, Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Through access to education, these girls become empowered women who inspire positive change in their communities. The support CAMFED provides lifts girls from poverty, putting them in a position to encourage and share knowledge with others to allow them to do the same.

Hispanic Federation

The Times also supports the Hispanic Federation. While the nonprofit mainly supports Hispanic communities and institutions in the U.S., it has granted $200,000 to Conservación ConCiencia in the Caribbean since Hurricane Maria devastated the region in 2017.

The Hispanic Federation’s donation focused on developing Puerto Rico’s resiliency to weather-related power outages that spoil fisheries’ stocks. Hurricane Maria left parts of Puerto Rico without power for months, destroying the food and income provided by fishing.

The Hispanic Federation’s grant to Conservación ConCiencia funded solar panels to prevent similar devastation from occurring in the future. This infrastructure makes families less likely to lose their livelihoods and fall into poverty after a natural disaster.

Takeaways

The New York Times Communities Fund fights global poverty by supporting nonprofits such as CAMFED and the Hispanic Federation. After more than 100 years of existence and positively impacting millions, the organization will likely continue using its influence to strive for a better world.

– Madison Fetch

Madison is based in Glasgow, Scotland and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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4 Organizations improving education in Colombia

education colombiaAs of 2022, nearly 37% of Colombia’s entire population is living below the country’s poverty line. This large impoverished population is here due to multiple factors, including armed conflicts and displacements, especially within the country’s rural areas. However, there are ways to help these families, with one major way being to support the development of better education within the country. Helping with education is an important step for many families to get out of poverty, and helping prevent further poverty within families that have not been affected yet. Here are a few organizations that help strengthen education in Colombia.

Fundación Pies Descalzos

Founded in 1997 by famous pop-singer and songwriter Shakira, Fundación Pies Descalzos (Barefoot Foundation in English) helps broaden access to education in Colombia. This includes training teachers, providing benefits to families in need, and building more schools. According to its website, it has helped more than 224,000 children all over the country. They also have worked with multiple other organizations during the years, including USAID, the Colombian Department of Education and Nestle. Recently, it also gave humanitarian aid to families affected by armed conflict within the country.

Education Cannot Wait

Founded in 2015 by Gordon Brown, Education Cannot Wait works to help refugee families provide better access to education for their children. Due to the large number of Venezuelan refugees in Colombia, this makes a significant portion of the poverty population that needs better access to education in Colombia. It also helps local Colombian children who were internally displaced due to armed conflict as part of its programs to provide better educational resources. So far, it has built 215 schools around the country and trained over 5,000 teachers as of 2024.

Social Finance UK

An organization based in the United Kingdom and founded in 2007, Social Finance offers numerous humanitarian aid benefits both within and outside its country’s borders. In Colombia, it mainly focuses on children of displaced families and children living in rural areas, as those are the ones who suffer the most difficulties in maintaining an education and are most affected by poverty in Colombia.

Its current program for Colombia, Outcomes Fund for Education Results (OFFERS), focuses on taking data from different projects and sharing their findings with the Colombian education system to help them make informed decisions on improving policy and finding methods to give the impoverished better access to education. OFFERS is also funded by Global Affairs Canada, which is a governmental organization of the Canadian government.

Powerful Children Colombia

Founded in 2021 as a response to the number of families that fell into poverty during the global pandemic, Powerful Children Colombia focuses on empowering children in Colombia who are currently suffering from poverty. It does this by creating partnerships with other organizations that help Colombian children with educational and developmental opportunities, in hopes of giving them better avenues to escape the cycle of poverty. Its two current programs focus on helping children in rural areas to help them promote physical education.

Education in Colombia

Colombia could take a long time to fully heal from the problems it has, but with better education, poverty could greatly improve, leading to higher standards of living. These are also only a few of the organizations helping give better access to education in Colombia, and they are always willing to receive support from people all over the world.

– Jose Gabriel Lopez

Jose is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 Charities Operating in Tanzania

5 Charities Operating in TanzaniaTanzania is acknowledged for its rich national parks like Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti. However, beyond its scenic landscapes, many citizens face significant economic hardship. As populations increase, the poverty rates also increase. In 2011, about 12.3 million Tanzanians lived in vulnerable conditions. By 2018, that number rose to 14 million. Still, recent data reveal progress—Zanzibar, for instance, recorded a 4.7% drop in poverty from 30.4% in 2014–15 to 25.7% in 2019–20. Charitable organizations have played a vital role in building community resilience and expanding access to essential services.

5 Charities Operating in Tanzania

  1. Save the Children. A global humanitarian organization focused on protecting children’s rights and well-being. The charity has worked with the Tanzanian government for more than 100 years, first launching its programs in Zanzibar before expanding across the country. Its efforts prioritize nutrition services, educational access and child poverty reduction. In Tanzania, 27% of the population lacks adequate sanitation and housing, with 8% living in extreme poverty. Children represent a significant portion of this population, comprising 44.8% of those affected. Save the Children operates under three core goals: eliminating preventable child deaths, ensuring access to education and protecting children from violence. Since 2024, the program has enacted 122 policy reforms and responded to 112 emergencies.
  2. Plan International. Plan International is an independent development and humanitarian organization that promotes health care, clean water access and child protection. Established in Tanzania in 1991, the organization now operates in eight regions and aims to eliminate child poverty by 2030 through policy reform and community empowerment. Plan International adheres to the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child, which affirms children’s right to security and care. Its long-term vision is to ensure all children, especially girls, have the opportunity to thrive.
  3. BAPS Charities. BAPS Charities provides essential services in health, education and nutrition. The BAPS clinic in Dar es Salaam is one of its most notable programs in Tanzania, offering free medical services to families. The clinic operates weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Services include lab work, treatment and food distribution. Children are given safe spaces and nourishment, such as water and snacks, contributing to a warm and welcoming environment.
  4. Zara Charity. Founded in 2009 by Zainab Ansell, Zara Charity is a nonprofit registered under the United Republic of Tanzania. It works to improve the lives of disadvantaged families through eco-tourism partnerships and educational support for women and orphans. Notable sponsors include Zita Tanzanian Wild Camps Ltd. and Tour Compass. Its key initiative is organizing volunteer cleanups on Mount Kilimanjaro to reduce environmental waste. Additionally, these activities provide residents, especially the underserved, with cleaner living conditions.
  5. Kupona Foundation. Kupona Foundation is a U.S.-based nonprofit that partners with the Comprehensive Community-Based Rehabilitation in Tanzania (CCBRT). The organization is dedicated to strengthening Tanzania’s health care systems. Kupona has raised $7 million to support medical treatment, training and infrastructure. Furthermore, with 87% of its funds directed to programming, the organization ensures financial accountability and sustainability. Kupona’s efforts help expand access to quality care while laying the foundation for long-term development.

Looking Ahead

Tanzania continues to make progress in reducing poverty, due to the efforts of local and international charitable organizations. These five charities exemplify how targeted interventions in health, education, environmental sustainability and child protection can transform communities. Indeed, as the nation pushes toward sustainable development, the work of these charities operating in Tanzania offers a roadmap for continued growth, resilience and hope.

– Janae Bayford

Janae is based in Centennial, CO, USA and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Tyla Supports South African Women’s Education Through Charity

Tyla Supports South African Women’s Education Through CharityTyla Laura Seethal, born in 2002 in Johannesburg, South Africa, continues to celebrate her African identity through music and performance. Her 2023 single “Water” went viral on TikTok and earned a Grammy Award in 2024 for Best African Musical Performance. Despite global success, Tyla remains rooted in her home country and recently launched an initiative to support young women’s education in South Africa.

Barriers to Women’s Education

Women in South Africa often face gender-based obstacles in pursuing education and professional advancement. Cultural expectations and unequal domestic responsibilities limit their ability to attain higher education. Although the South African Constitution prohibits discrimination, persistent stereotypes suggest men are better suited for leadership roles. A study conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic at a University of Technology in the Free State Province revealed the structural barriers women face in higher education. Female staff reported challenges including harassment, stereotyping, maternity leave concerns and doubts about their qualifications. These findings highlight the need for gender-responsive reforms to promote economic and social development through inclusive education.

Tyla’s ‘Bliss Smoothie’ Initiative

In April 2025, Tyla partnered with U.S.-based health food store Erewhon to launch the “Bliss Smoothie.” Proceeds from smoothie sales support 18twenty8, a South African nonprofit focused on women’s education and personal development. Tyla selected 18twenty8 because of its long-standing mission to empower women through education, recognizing that access to schooling plays a vital role in breaking the cycle of poverty. The organization received renewed attention following the donation, which founder Refiloe Seseane called “a motivator to continue the work that [they] have been doing.”

18twenty8’s Impact

Since registering in 2011, 18twenty8 has supported women ages 18 to 28 through life skills workshops, financial assistance, leadership camps and peer mentorship. The organization aims to build women’s confidence and equip them with tools for success. Graduates featured on the organization’s website have shared stories of how tuition assistance and mentorship enabled them to pursue their degrees and long-term goals. Tyla’s contribution may help more women access higher education and challenge the cultural norms that have historically limited their potential.

Expanding Opportunities Through the ‘Big Sister Network’

In addition to its core programs, 18twenty8 operates the Big Sister Network, a mentorship initiative that pairs young women with professional female mentors. This program provides guidance, career exposure and support, addressing the lack of positive female role models and academic mentors in many communities. Through these relationships, participants gain insights into various career paths and develop the confidence to pursue their goals. The ‘Big Sister Network’ exemplifies 18twenty8’s commitment to holistic empowerment, fostering a supportive environment where young women can thrive.

Looking Ahead

As Tyla continues to expand her influence, initiatives like the Bliss Smoothie partnership aim to open new avenues for global engagement in gender-focused development. Sustained support for organizations like 18twenty8 could strengthen the pipeline of South African women’s education and skilled professions in South Africa. Future collaborations with public institutions and the private sector could also help scale impact through scholarships, digital learning tools and mentorship infrastructure. According to UNESCO, each additional year of secondary education for a girl can increase her future earnings by up to 20%, highlighting the long-term benefits of educational access. By investing in women’s development early, communities may see improved health, reduced poverty and higher levels of civic participation.

– Sarina Francis

Sarina is based in Tallahassee, FL, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Realities of Child Poverty in the Philippines

The Realities of Child Poverty in the PhilippinesChild poverty in the Philippines remains a pressing concern that affects children’s physical and mental development. While the overall poverty rate in the country has declined, the child poverty rate continues to increase. According to a 2022 policy research report by the World Bank and UNICEF, approximately 5.14 million Filipino children—about 12.4%—live in extreme poverty.

Root Causes and Response Initiatives

Causes, familiarity and socio-economic conditions contribute to the rising number of children living below the poverty line. Advocacy organizations and programs like the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and Childhope Philippines Foundation work to ensure that children living on less than $2.15 per day can access education, health care, housing and other resources needed to break the poverty cycle. The Philippines continues to pursue its goal of becoming an upper-middle-income country. However, poverty in the country stems from multiple interconnected issues. The long-term effects of child poverty extend beyond the affected children to wider society.

Several factors, including limited employment, inadequate access to quality education and health care and regional conflict, contribute to the persistence of poverty among children.

Child Labor

Low household income remains a key driver of child labor. To support their families, many children either drop out of school or divide their time between work and school. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), in 2023, around 1.09 million children aged 5 to 17 were working and 678,000 of them were not eligible to work legally. Although the number of working children has decreased from previous years—935,000 in 2021 and 828,000 in 2022—child labor remains a significant concern. Many children leave school due to financial hardship, creating a cycle of poverty that could persist across generations.

Education

Education plays a vital role in national development. The Philippine government mandates a 13-year basic education system from kindergarten through 12th grade, known as the K–12 program. Despite this, many Filipino children face a learning crisis marked by poor performance in international assessments and high levels of learning poverty. According to UNICEF, children in the Philippines lag five to six years behind students in countries with similar economic profiles.

The education system is governed by three agencies: the Department of Education (DepEd), which manages the K–12 public school system; the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), which oversees universities; and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), which supervises vocational training programs. While enrollment has increased, access to quality education remains uneven, especially in rural areas. Addressing inaccessibility through advocacy and investment could help children build a better educational foundation.

Child Poverty Reduction Solutions

Governmental and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) programs, such as the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) programs and Childhope Philippines Foundation, work to combat child poverty in the Philippines. Government programs provide financial support to low-income families, help ensure that every child can attend school and receive necessary health care, while NGOs offer educational solutions, food assistance and community development projects. Expanding and implementing these solutions can potentially get every individual to work together to fight against child poverty effectively, for an increase in opportunities for children as they grow older.

Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps)

The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) serves as the country’s flagship poverty reduction strategy. Implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the program provides financial aid to poor households for up to seven years. Conditions include children’s school attendance, regular health visits and participation in family development sessions.

The 4Ps is the fourth-largest CCT program globally and funds 4,177,476 loan recipients, with 870,865 newly registered households. The strategy covered 75% of the country’s population alongside the Philippine government and the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), eradicating extreme poverty and hunger, achieving quality education, advancing gender equality, decreasing child mortality and upgrading maternal health care. The 4Ps’ accomplishments have resulted in a poverty reduction of 1.4 percentage points per year or 1.5 million fewer poor Filipinos. In the end, more than 600,000 Filipino families accomplished self-sufficiency with help from the 4Ps. 

Childhope Philippines Foundation

Childhope Philippines is a renowned NGO that aims to promote the welfare, uphold and protect the rights of street children in the Philippines. The organization provides education, health services and livelihood opportunities for the impoverished youth. Established in 1995, Childhope empowers children with skills and resources to achieve a brighter future. It encourages everyone to become a united community where individuals play a role in raising awareness of child poverty in the country.

Nationally and internationally, the foundation encourages people to send donations and participate in volunteer work to become a beacon of hope for 50,000 to 70,000 Filipino children who live and work on the streets of Metro Manila, Philippines. Throughout the years, Childhope transformed the lives of approximately 10,500 street children with long-lasting impacts through its partnerships and projects.

Looking Ahead

Every child deserves access to basic rights and opportunities for a better future. Child poverty in the Philippines requires comprehensive strategies that address economic hardship, improve education and expand social welfare. Efforts by both the government and NGOs play a crucial role in reducing hardship and supporting children’s development. Ongoing commitment from all sectors could help build a society where every child can thrive and contribute meaningfully to national growth.

– Makayla Johnson

Makayla is based in Cary, NC, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Clinton Foundation Aids Myanmar and Thailand Earthquake Victims

Earthquake in Thailand and MyanmarOn March 28, 2025, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, with tremors felt across neighboring Thailand. The disaster caused more than 2,000 deaths, according to the Associated Press and led to severe destruction in Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city. Damage to roads, airports and buildings complicated rescue and relief operations. Power outages, fuel shortages and high temperatures further slowed search efforts.

Seismic Risk and Regional Vulnerability

Experts attribute the quake to tectonic activity along the Sagaing Fault, a major boundary between the India and Eurasia plates that cuts through densely populated areas like Mandalay. According to geologist Dr. Rebecca Bell of Imperial College London, the fault’s linear structure allows for wide ruptures, contributing to the scale of destruction.

Impact on an Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis

The earthquake added pressure to Myanmar’s existing humanitarian emergency. Since 2023, escalating conflict has led to widespread displacement and many of those affected by the earthquake were already living in fragile conditions. The disaster intensified the need for shelter, clean water, food and health care. According to Health Poverty Action, thousands of people have been injured or displaced, while hospitals face critical supply shortages. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) reported urgent needs for tents, medical services and clean drinking water

Economic Toll

The quake caused an estimated $36 billion in damage, roughly 70% of Myanmar’s GDP. This widespread destruction further weakens a national economy already strained by conflict and poverty. Beyond the immediate destruction, the earthquake severely disrupted Myanmar’s agricultural sector, particularly in the Dry Zone, which is the country’s primary region for pulses, oilseeds and cereals.

Damage to infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, has hindered farmers’ access to markets and essential inputs, threatening upcoming planting seasons and potentially leading to reduced harvests and incomes. Furthermore, the destruction of key government facilities in Naypyidaw, including ministries responsible for trade and commerce, has impeded administrative functions critical for economic recovery and export activities. These compounded effects are expected to exacerbate inflation, increase poverty rates and strain Myanmar’s limited foreign exchange reserves, posing long-term challenges to the nation’s economic stability.

Coordinated Aid Through the Clinton Global Initiative

The Clinton Foundation’s Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) quickly mobilized its members to respond to the crisis. These partners worked alongside local and international groups to support communities affected by the disaster.

  • The Afya Foundation assessed medical needs and distributed supplies through local partners.
  • Airlink coordinated logistics with more than 15 NGOs, helping deliver search and rescue teams despite damaged infrastructure.
  • All Hands and Hearts arrived shortly after the quake to assess needs and provide an early response in Bangkok and nearby communities.
  • CARE delivered urgent medical and health services for women and families.
  • The Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP) supported recovery efforts with targeted funding.
  • Direct Relief, with a longstanding presence in the region, coordinated with the ASEAN Coordinating Center to deliver emergency medical aid.
  • The International Medical Corps provided emergency trauma and surgical care, deploying a medical team to assist overwhelmed hospitals and clinics.

Looking Ahead

As relief efforts continue to aid those affected by the earthquake in Thailand and Myanmar, international organizations and local partners remain focused on recovery, emphasizing the importance of collaboration during disasters. The coordinated response through the Clinton Foundation’s network reflects the growing role of philanthropic and nonprofit actors in delivering rapid humanitarian assistance, especially in regions already experiencing poverty and instability.

– Abirame Shanthakumar

Abirame is based in Ontario, Canada and focuses on Celebs and World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Friendship: Support To Remote Communities in Bangladesh

Remote Communities in BangladeshBangladesh is situated in South Asia on the Bay of Bengal. It is the eighth most densely populated country in the world, with a population of more than 175 million in an area of 148,460 sq km. It is a country of striking contrasts: rich in culture and resilience, yet acutely vulnerable to the impacts of changing climatic conditions. Most of the country is situated only nine meters above sea level.

An estimated 3.5 million people in the low-lying delta region face increasing threats from rising sea levels and more intense monsoon seasons. Indeed, in 2022 alone, historic floods devastated northern regions like Sylhet and Sunamganj, displacing millions and severely disrupting transportation, electricity, health care and access to education.

Despite the risks, many of Bangladesh’s neediest communities live in low-lying coastal and riverine areas, lacking sufficient income to live in lower-risk regions. These zones are fertile and agriculturally productive. However, when floods occur, it is children and low-income families who suffer most, facing destroyed homes, lost livelihoods and health crises with little support.

From One Floating Hospital to a National Lifeline

In 2002, Runa Khan founded Friendship, a nongovernmental organization (NGO) with a radical yet simple mission: delivering support to remote communities in Bangladesh with reduced access. The initiative launched a floating hospital on the Jamuna River in northern Bangladesh. This aims to provide essential health services to isolated communities living on “chars”― sandbar islands that vanish and reappear with the tides.

Since then, Friendship has evolved into a wide-reaching, holistic organization. Today, its 5,000 employees ― more than 70% of whom come from local communities ― work to break cycles of poverty and increase resilience to the regional climate crisis. Its integrated approach includes health care, education, disaster preparedness, economic development and clean energy and water access.

Health Care and Remote Communities in Bangladesh

Friendship operates a unique three-tier health care system:

  • Tier 1: Two floating hospitals and two land hospitals bring lifesaving services to remote areas. The Shyamnagar hospital alone provided emergency services to 317 patients in recent years.
  • Tier 2: Two cervical cancer screening centers tackle Bangladesh’s second-most prevalent form of cancer, offering prevention and treatment in areas where such services are rarely available.
  • Tier 3: About 680 Friendship Community Medic-Aides, local women trained in basic medical care, offer antenatal, postnatal and child health services.

Powering Livelihoods and Clean Futures

Friendship’s Sustainable Economic Development program supports long-term resilience. In its innovative solar villages, 291 households, 62 shops, four schools and two mosques are now powered by 24-hour solar energy. This has enabled families to extend working hours, refrigerate food and medicines and improve safety and security at night. Clean water access is another priority. Friendship has also supplied more than 700,000 liters of clean drinking water to hundreds of families, drastically reducing disease.

Meanwhile, the organization’s farmers’ club provides sustainable farming training. It empowers more than 1,400 farmers to grow climate-resilient crops like sweet potatoes and mustard. Romesa Khatun, a club member, began using earthworms to make fertilizer in 2022, selling the product and using it in her vegetable garden. She says that the support of the club and Sherazul Islam, project officer at Friendship’s Sustainable Economic Development Sector, empowered her to embrace innovative farming techniques to support her family, especially when her husband is away for work.

These programs boost food security and provide more adaptive livelihoods to environmental challenges.

Hope from Within

In Bangladesh’s flood-prone coastal and riverine communities, poverty and climate vulnerability often go hand in hand. But through Friendship’s work with remote communities in Bangladesh, hope is taking root. What began as a floating hospital has become a nationwide lifeline. It delivers support to remote communities and uplifts them with health care, education, economic opportunity and climate resilience.

Rather than relying on top-down aid, Friendship invests in people ― training local women as community health workers, equipping youth with education and leadership skills and helping farmers adapt to a changing climate. Indeed, Friendship’s impact shows that locally led, community-focused development can help vulnerable populations chart a path toward safety, dignity and lasting change even in the face of rising waters.

– Holly McArthur

Holly is based in Somerset, UK and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Local Solutions Drive Madagascar’s Poverty Solutions

Madagascar's poverty solutionsMadagascar, the world’s fifth-largest island, is renowned for its unique biodiversity and natural resources. Yet, the country faces persistent poverty, with 75% of its population living below the national poverty line as of 2022. Rural areas are particularly affected, with poverty rates reaching 79.9%. Political instability, limited infrastructure and changing weather patterns destabilize the region and exacerbate the situation.

Battling Hunger and Malnutrition

Since 2019, the southern regions of Madagascar have been grappling with severe droughts, leading to famine-like conditions. Approximately 1.3 million people are food insecure, with malnutrition rates among children under 5 doubling in recent years. In response, the World Food Programme (WFP) and UNICEF have collaborated to deliver life-saving nutrition supplies, such as Plumpy’Sup, to malnourished children in remote areas. Innovative methods, including Unmanned Aircraft Systems, have been employed to reach isolated communities.  

Madagascar’s reliance on rain-fed agriculture makes it vulnerable to the harsh climate. Prolonged droughts have devastated crops, leading to food shortages and economic hardship. To combat this, Madagascar’s poverty solutions include programs promoting climate-smart agriculture. These initiatives teach farmers sustainable practices, such as using drought-resistant crops and mulching, to improve food security and protect the environment. 

International Support and Development Projects

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) committed $22.1 million to support Madagascar’s southern regions through projects like Vikina and Harea. These initiatives aim to build resilience, improve food security and promote sustainable farming practices. Additionally, USAID’s Mikajy project focuses on linking biodiversity conservation with sustainable livelihoods. By supporting community-based enterprises and introducing conservation farming, the project helps communities achieve economic growth while preserving natural resources.

In 2023, the World Bank approved a $250 million credit to expand access to social protection for extremely poor households across all 23 regions of Madagascar. The initiative aims to strengthen the national safety net system and improve household resilience to economic and climate-related shocks. In the same year, the World Bank committed an additional $400 million to the Digital and Energy Connectivity for Inclusion in Madagascar Project (DECIM). This program aims to double the country’s energy access from 33.7% to 67% and expand internet connectivity by reaching 3.4 million new users. The investment supports long-term development by promoting digital inclusion, clean energy and infrastructure growth.

Community-Driven Initiatives

Local communities are also taking action in Madagascar’s poverty solutions by preserving their lush forests. Reforestation projects, such as those by Eden Reforestation Projects, aim to restore mangroves and upland forests while providing both environmental benefits and employment opportunities.  In the Makay region, eco-tourism initiatives promote low-impact tourism, generating income for local communities while funding conservation efforts. Microfinance programs, like those supported by Money for Madagascar, empower individuals to start small businesses, fostering economic independence and community development. 

Looking Ahead

By focusing on sustainable development, climate resilience and economic empowerment, Madagascar continues to build a path toward resilience and improved well-being for its people.

– Giovanni Garcia

Giovanni is based in Long Beach, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Uneven Growth: Guatemala’s Poverty

Guatemala’s Uneven Growth Amid Persistent PovertyGuatemala, a land where ancient Mayan temples pierce through lush rainforest canopies, stands at a critical crossroads. Since 2000, Central America’s most populous nation has achieved noteworthy economic growth, boasting the region’s largest economy. According to the World Bank, Guatemala’s GDP was an estimated $108.9 billion. Yet beneath these statistics lies a paradox: for millions of Guatemalans, extreme poverty continues to define daily life. A 2023 national survey reported that 56% of the population lives in poverty, with about 10% surviving on $2.15 or less per person. Despite recent growth, the poverty rate has only dropped by about 3.3%.

The Human Face of Economic Disparity

Guatemala’s poverty shows up in the highest rate of childhood malnutrition in Latin America, limited access to clean water and unequal access to education. Conditions are especially severe for Indigenous communities, particularly descendants of the Maya. According to data from the United Nations (U.N.), approximately 80% of Guatemala’s indigenous people live in some form of poverty; in other words, four out of five people.

In rural villages, residents often lack sanitation, infrastructure and health care. In 44% of rural municipalities, at least three-quarters of residents live below the poverty line. These areas have historically received fewer services than cities like Guatemala City. Structural barriers—such as limited access to skilled jobs or land ownership—have made upward mobility difficult.

Very few of those in extreme poverty have access to sewage systems. Around half of Guatemala’s children are malnourished. In rural areas, the poverty rate stands at 66.3%, compared to about one-third in urban areas. These numbers point to a generational crisis where children grow up without the nutrition or resources to escape poverty.

Disasters and the Cost of Inaction

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hurricanes Eta and Iota destroyed more than 130,000 hectares of crops, pushing 1.8 million more people into food insecurity. Guatemala sits in the Dry Corridor, where erratic rainfall causes frequent crop failures. The U.N. reported in 2020 that more than 80% of families in this region struggled to meet basic food needs, which has led to a reliance on international food relief and an exodus into Mexico. In 2018, Volcán de Fuego, an active stratovolcano 18 km west of the city of Antigua, erupted, killing more than 200 people and destroying villages. About 43% of farmers in the region lost use of their land.

Corruption and Lack of Investment

Government responses often fall short. Corruption diverts resources away from those in need. Guatemala spends less of its GDP on social services than nearly every other country in the region. Public investment is low and the country has one of the weakest capacities to collect and use revenue for development. A 2014 World Bank report concluded that the country is at the bottom in public spending and ability to mobilize investment.

Faith-Based and International Aid

In many rural areas, churches and nonprofits fill gaps left by the state. Since 2014, Catholic Relief Services (CRS), funded in part by USAID, has distributed more than 40 million school meals through its Aprendizaje para la Vida program. During COVID-19, CRS and Caritas provided meals to 47,000 children in Totonicapán and offered classes to parents on how to prepare nutritious meals. Faith-based organizations also run mobile clinics, build homes and distribute drought-resistant seeds. Programs like Corredor Seco help improve access to clean water and food. NGOs such as Action Against Hunger and Fundación Genesis Empresarial work with the U.N. Food Programme to support local communities.

Looking Ahead

Nearly half the population continues to live in poverty without reliable access to essential services. Guatemala’s path forward depends on systemic reform, stronger governance and continued support from international partners. With collaboration, targeted investment and inclusive policies, there could be a way to break Guatemala’s poverty cycle.

– Max Marcello

Max is based in Pittsburgh, PA, USA and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Generational Poverty in Hong Kong

Generational Poverty in Hong KongHong Kong, a territory of more than 7.4 million people spread across 263 islands, is facing a growing poverty crisis. Data from the Census and Statistics Department reveals that the number of poor households increased by 22.7% in 2024. Although the government lifted pandemic restrictions in 2022, Hong Kong’s economic performance continues to weaken. The monthly income threshold for a four-person household living below the poverty line is approximately HK$20,800 (roughly $2,680). Rent accounts for about 70% of the median household income. Since 2019, housing costs have increased by an average of 3.3% per year and one in every five Hong Kongers is living below the poverty line.

Elderly Workers and Public Housing

Those aged 65 and above are more likely to experience poverty than any other age group. Rapid shifts in market demand and the rise of new technologies have phased out many blue-collar jobs that older workers once held. Some unemployed residents report struggling to afford even public transportation to reach the few jobs they have left. While public housing offers some relief, rent still consumes up to 20% of residents’ monthly income, leaving many unable to afford shelter and proper nutrition. A government response could help alleviate these conditions. However, according to some observers, due to Hong Kong’s alignment with the Communist Party’s United Front policies, anti-poverty efforts remain underprioritized, while the wealth gap continues to widen.

Poverty’s Impact on Children

Poverty disproportionately affects Hong Kongers aged 65 and above, but the territory’s widening wealth gap is placing more children at risk. According to the 2023 Census and Statistics Department data, 222,600 children under age 18 live below the poverty line. Most of these children come from households with four or more members.

Many low-income children cannot participate in school activities due to financial constraints. A sixteen-year-old student, Bianca Zhang Bao-zhi, said she could not afford to join a school sports team due to the HK$2,000-per-term fee. She expressed frustration at the lack of government subsidies, especially since the programs are tied to educational institutions.

Many low-income families feel that the government should be doing more to address poverty among children. The Children’s Rights Association rated the Hong Kong government zero in 2023 for failing to create effective policies that improve conditions for children living below the poverty line.

Strive and Rise Programme, one of the government’s main poverty initiatives for youth, offers mentorship to students from low-income areas. However, the program has had limited impact. Of the 80 children enrolled, only one in four had met with a mentor assigned to them. Local organizations suggest the program is unlikely to produce long-term change.

Save the Children’s Role in Hong Kong

Save the Children is an international organization operating in more than 120 countries with a mission to inspire breakthroughs in the way the world treats children and to achieve immediate and lasting change in their lives.

In Hong Kong, the organization has expanded its work significantly in recent years. Specifically for 2025 to 2027, Save the Children aims to prioritize protection against conflict, climate-related risks and child poverty. Its programs in the region aim to support mental health, education and well-being. Initiatives like Play to Thrive, Heart and Mind and Introducing Social and Emotional Learning to School are active in local schools on Wan Chai Island. These programs serve children from underprivileged communities through structured learning and emotional support activities.

Save the Children is privately funded and often viewed as one of the few large-scale actors working to alleviate poverty in Hong Kong without direct government support.

Firsthand Reflections on Child Advocacy Work

A former volunteer, who asked to remain anonymous, spoke with The Borgen Project and shared insight about their experience: “Save the Children initiatives can differ from nation to nation based on need or focus. All Save the Children programs are known for their humanitarian work. However, Hong Kong is deeply involved in child welfare through education and advocacy initiatives.”

Reflecting on their experience in Hong Kong, the source added, “I worked on the early stages of what is now called the ‘Every Last Child’ initiative. The program worked in advocating for the rights of children within marginalized groups. We often visited schools and orphanages in low-income areas on Wan Chai Island, where Save the Children’s headquarters is located. The activities we did provided educational tools and emotional support for the personal experiences the children were going through.”

The volunteer emphasized the impact of its work, “Do it! The organization has more than 120 offices worldwide, not just in Hong Kong. It is some of the most rewarding work one can do and it will follow you into any career path chosen.”

Looking Ahead

As housing prices continue to rise and the cost of living outpaces wages, poverty remains a persistent issue in Hong Kong. While older generations face increased isolation and job displacement, children in low-income households lack equal access to opportunity. Organizations like Save the Children continue to support vulnerable populations through grassroots programs and school-based initiatives. With sustained attention to education, mental health and youth development, there is hope that current child-focused interventions may contribute to reversing intergenerational poverty in the years to come.

– Mackenzie Inman

Mackenzie is based in Washington D.C., USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

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