At the heart of our Family Strengthening programmes is our drive to support communities where children face the highest risk of separation from their families. Teaming up with local services, we identify and support those most vulnerable.
Throughout 2022, we provided holistic support tailored to each family’s unique challenges. Our engagement typically lasts for three to five years, empowering caregivers towards self-reliance, equipping them with essential skills and resources, such as food, access to healthcare and education, and support with livelihoods development.
We champion community involvement for sustainable impact, engaging local communities in our initiatives that address key issues causing family separation, like child marriage and girls’ education rights. This community education approach ensures ongoing family support.
We are effective because we are trusted by the local community. SOS Children’s Villages local teams are part of the communities they serve, fostering strong relationships with local organisations, government bodies, and suppliers. This allows us to establish trust with community leaders and generate support for our programmes.
Manju Devis, a 37-year-old mother of three from the mountain village of Bhumiadar in India, endured over two decades of violence and abuse in her marriage before finally separating from her husband. As the head of the household and one of the few financially independent women in her village, she vowed to protect her children from further suffering. Living in a community where domestic violence is an everyday reality for many women, Manju sought help to break the cycle of abuse.
Manju joined SOS Children’s Villages’ Family Strengthening Programme in 2019, receiving support for her daughters’ education and a livelihood grant. She started rearing goats and took on various jobs, gradually becoming financially independent. Swati, who works on the SOS Family Strengthening Programme, focused on ensuring the family’s stress didn’t hinder the children’s education and worked with the community to emphasise the importance of non-abusive relationships.
Gaining the confidence to report the abuse, Manju received support from local law enforcement and her community. This has led to a stronger bond between her and her children, increased social confidence, and improved education for her children. Manju’s family serves as an example of hope and determination in the face of adversity.
