Since 1975, Compassion has partnered with local churches in Ecuador to lift children out of poverty in Jesus’ name. Today, more than 102,000 children are benefiting from Compassion’s support and care at almost 300 child development centers throughout the country. Every one of these children receives the nutrition, access to health care and educational support they need to beat poverty and grow into fulfilled, self-sufficient adults.
Ecuador is a country of contrasts. Wedged between Colombia and Peru, it holds dense jungles, pristine coastal beaches and the towering peaks of the Andes, a massive chain of mountains that runs along the western coast of South America.
With its beauty comes the reality of living in poverty. Unemployment is a continuous issue, and most families live on $7 a day. Malnourishment has touched about one-fifth of the residents in rural areas, which is where 75 percent of Ecuadorians live.
Children in coastal regions frequently suffer from coughs, flu, parasites and intestinal illnesses. Contaminated drinking water is the cause of most of these gastrointestinal ailments.
Compassion is striving to create the conditions in which every child in Ecuador has access to safe water and adequate sanitation, in which every child can complete their education, and in which no child has to work to survive. Our child development centers provide an essential base for these efforts. They are staffed by workers who are dedicated to improving children’s lives in Jesus’ name and to reaching out to those most in need.
Thanks to you, a church plant and child development center will change the daily living conditions for the children of this community.
Quick Facts
18,000 square miles of coast and beaches
Dominant industry: Fishing
75% of the people live in rural areas
Mostly indigenous people live in the jungle region
Home construction: Cane with zinc sheet roofs
