Ecuador is located in South America. The country shares boarders with Colombia and Peru. The country also includes in Galapagos Islands, which are located about 1,000km west of the mainland, in the Pacific Ocean.
Economic instability in Ecuador has made life difficult for the poor. Currently, approx 35% of the population live in poverty. In 2008, heavey seasonal rains caused flooding to nearly half the country. Approx 300,000 people (40% of these were children) had to flee their homes, and more than 14,000 people were living in shelters and schools.
Issues children in Ecuador face:
- Colds / Flu
- Kidney Infections
- Respiratory Illnesses
- Skin Diseases
- Anaemia
- Malnutrition
- Parasites
- Dental Problems
- Kidney infections
- Malaria
Many communities need high schools, proper sanitation, education awareness, recreation facilities, medical facilities, improved sewer systems, improved access to nutritious food and clothing.
Examples of what a monetary gift can buy for your sponsored child in Ecuador:
$10 and under: two chickens
$20 and under: goat, pig, pair of guinea pigs for breeding
$30 and under: sheep, used bicycle
Examples of what a monetary gift can purchase for your sponsor child's family:
$75 and under: new bicycle, used sewing machine
$150 and under: new sewing machine
$250 and under: cow
Income generating ideas which can be purchased with a monetary family gift are:
$45 and under: coolers to sell cold drinks or ice creams
$120 and under: blender and electric juicer to prepare juice for sale
$250 and under: BBQ with table for selling fast food
$300 and under: A set of hand tools and electric tools to be used for wood-working, bicycle pulling a cart to sell fruit/ vegetables
Compassion International began working in Ecuador in 1974. Over 47,000 children participate in around 189 child development centres. Compassion Australia assists over 2,400 of these children. Currently 137 Ecuadorian students are enrolled in the Leadership Development Program. 35 Child Survival Programs are currently in operation.
To sponsor a child in Ecuador click here
