Mexico

In September 2017, two high-magnitude earthquakes hit 10 states in Mexico, affecting thousands and leaving hundreds dead. On top of this, multiple hurricanes and tropical storms hit various regions, weakening already-vulnerable communities. We responded with relief like food, water, and damage repair. Your support helped us create dozens of Child-Friendly Spaces, havens of childhood where kids' physical and emotional needs can be met during trauma. Violence toward women and gender inequality in the workplace are pervasive problems that we're addressing with programs to transform harmful attitudes. Half of Mexico's population is impoverished, although each year the poverty rate falls steadily. Keeping children in school and encouraging stable home lives goes a long way toward breaking cycles of poverty. Despite the terrible events from natural disasters this year, the Mexican people joined together as brothers and sisters to show love and empathy for their affected neighbors. Our programs are strengthening leadership among adolescents and advocacy participation among children, and we're seeing kids lead the way in transforming their communities. Your support is giving kids capacity to love and serve their vulnerable neighbors just like they've been loved and served.