El Salvador

Why World Vision is in El Salvador


As El Salvador grappled with the effects of the pandemic in 2020, the country was also rocked by natural disasters like severe storms, hurricanes, and a landslide that created further vulnerabilities for kids and families. Children were exposed to significant levels of domestic violence and abuse as the pressures of the pandemic on already-poor families intensified throughout the year, and schools were suspended for much of the year. The contracting economy hit rates not seen since the years of armed conflict almost three decades ago. Nearly every facet of life was affected, from food security to healthcare to child protection. In El Salvador, World Vision was recognized by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs as the top organization working in emergency response, covering both the pandemic and the natural disasters. With Christ at the center, kids and youth were kept safe from harm and equipped to advocate for their needs. Strong partnerships allowed us to help make sure disaster-affected families had the basics they needed, including shelter and other support. Children’s rights were promoted, and boys and girls received access to emotional, physical, and mental care.

We never give up on people

World Vision child sponsorship looks at all the things that prevent children from surviving and thriving in their community, and then works with that community to bring all the pieces of the puzzle together to build a better life for all children. For sponsors, it’s a personal way to show God’s love to a child in need in a life-changing way.

Sponsor a child in El Salvador ❯

ElSalvador Child Protection
ElSalvador Education
ElSalvador Faith

Prayer Requests from El Salvador

World Vision's staff in El Salvador are asking us to join them in prayer for the following:

  • For the children we work with who have experienced violence from their family members during the pressures of the pandemic.

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  • For politicians and leaders to make wise and timely decisions that prioritize vulnerable children and uphold their protection.

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News from El Salvador

From the Field

Central American migration: Facts, FAQs, and how to help

Here are basic facts and FAQs about Central America migration, how World Vision addresses root causes of poverty there, and how you can help. One program raising promise among vulnerable youth in Central America is Youth Ready. Through this approach, we help young people discover their potential, develop specific career and life skills, establish support networks, build character and confidence, and plan for their future in their communities. This is work is made possible largely through child sponsorship.

From the Field

10 of the worst disasters in 2021

In 2021, World Vision responded to 72 disasters in 52 countries, helping more than 30.1 million people in crisis — in addition to our ongoing global response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about some of the worst disasters of 2021.