Since 2023, the Ursula Zindel Hilti Foundation has been supporting the Family Strengthening Programme in Shashemene town. The aim of this programme is to give all children and young people the chance to succeed in life.
In Shashemene, a particularly high number of children suffer from the consequences of poverty. For example, the infant mortality rate is above average. Many children are malnourished and frequently ill. Child labour is also widespread. As a result, four out of ten pupils drop out of school after four years.
SOS Children's Villages has been operating in the region for a long time and has an excellent standing. Together with the municipal authorities and local organisations, SOS Children's Villages works to ensure that families have a secure income and that children grow up in a safe and healthy environment. In order to improve the schools, teachers attend continuing education courses in modern didactics and inclusive education. School buildings are being renovated or newly built. Young people are supported in training for a vocational career and to become self-sufficient.
The programme directly supports 1578 children and 100 young people from 481 families. Indirectly, the improvements achieved benefit around 8620 children and adults.
Fotomaterial © SOS Kinderdorf Schweiz