After-School program keeps children safe, supported, and succeeding

Our PENNT sponsor site works closely with young people in Cochabamba, Bolivia, a busy city where there are many dangers for youth. The central mission of the staff is serving youth in the impoverished urban outskirts who are at considerable risk of dropping out of school to find work to earn an income for their families. 

The site supports children who work on the streets through sponsorship and an after-school support program, so they can remain in school and still help their families. This program runs Monday to Friday and includes a substantial meal and snacks – a big draw for the young students. The site staff also use the time to conduct age-appropriate workshops and training sessions with the children, teens and parents on topics such as health, hygiene, and parenting. 

The PENNT staff have been running this program since 2017 and are seeing it bear much fruit. Each year, more than 99% of the children passed their school year. More specifically, children in elementary are earning average grades of 91%, compared to 75% for those who did not have the support of the program. High schoolers report an average grade of 88%, compared to 70% for those who do not have this support. 

The site has mapped out the next three years of the program, in which 750 at-risk children and teens are receiving tutoring, homework help, extra classes, sports and cultural activities, and even opportunities for spiritual growth. One of their spiritual activities was Bible Month, in which the children chose and performed skits of Jesus’ parables. They also enjoyed celebrating Friendship Day, and the annual local festival of the Assumption of the Virgin of Urkupiña, commemorating a Marian apparition in Cochabamba! 

This program has been a great blessing for all the children and teens who have participated through the years. They have learned to respect themselves and each other, work collaboratively, and value education. They also have a reliable nutritious meal and the presence of supportive adult role models. These programs are life-changing for the youth who are otherwise facing dangerous pressures. Thank you to everyone who has supported these programs to date. If you are interested in offering support, please see the School Program for Children and Adolescents on our website.