There are more refugees in the world than ever before — 27 million — and their needs have never been greater, not only for the basic necessities of life, but also for hope and opportunities to be self-sufficient. Find out more about the global refugee crisis.
Why World Vision is in Colombia
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, sponsors may experience delays in communication from their sponsored child. We are actively working to keep you updated as the situation changes.
Like many other countries in 2020, Colombia faced more challenges than just the COVID-19 pandemic. The ongoing economic and social crises in some South American countries have pushed hundreds of thousands of people out of their home countries in search of better living conditions: By the end of 2020, more than 1.7 million Venezuelan migrants were in Colombia, with the majority unregistered with the government. As Colombia weathered the economic, social, and physical tolls of the pandemic, many vulnerable populations faced food insecurity, shortages of hygiene supplies and water, and healthcare challenges, among others.
Working together with the government, faith-based organizations, donors, and families, we reached over 880,000 children and youth with resources to help them get through the pandemic. Kids and families were supported with food, clean water and hygiene supplies, healthcare access, and other programs to keep children safe and healthy. Hundreds of thousands of children and youth had their immediate needs like food and shelter met as other resources helped them cope with challenges related to migration.
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 Colombia ❯
Progress in Colombia
Thanks to the generous support of donors, we’re making great progress toward the well-being of children and their families.
Child Protection and Care
Boys and girls are safe and valued, well cared for by their families, and participating in their communities as agents of transformation.
- Community members are learning how to advocate for child rights and protection, empowering people to speak out to ensure children are safe, cared for, and protected from abuse. Some community groups have created joint plans to strengthen child protection, helping more children stay safe.
- Faith leaders were trained to run our parenting workshops and support groups, to help families provide safer and more loving homes, free of violence and abuse.
Healthy Children and Families
Children and families are well nourished, protected from infection and disease, and have access to essential health services.
- Community members were given cash or vouchers and food assistance as part of our COVID-19 response, helping families to meet their basic needs.
- Handwashing stations with soap and water were set up in public spaces, helping to protect children and their families from COVID-19. Hygiene kits including soap, jerry cans, and handwashing supplies were given to community members, helping to protect children and their families from COVID-19.
Education for Better Lives
Children have opportunities to learn and to develop their talents, young people are equipped for the future, and families and communities support children's education.
- Children received educational items to help them learn at home while schools closed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prayer Requests from Colombia
World Vision's staff in Colombia are asking us to join them in prayer for the following:
For the physical and emotional well-being and safety of the children suffering the most from the effects of the pandemic.
News from Colombia
From the Field
Venezuela crisis: Facts, FAQs, and how to help
The Venezuela crisis has caused more than 6 million people to flee the country seeking food, work, and a better life. While the influx from Venezuela has caused tensions in host countries, it’s also brought out their hospitable spirit.
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.
Enjoyed learning about Colombia?
Now discover another country: