Cuenca del Rio Mira Project, Ecuador

See the progress you helped make happen in your sponsored community

When the project started, education was not a priority.

Clean water was in short supply and health services were limited and malnutrition was common in children aged below five. 

Unemployment was increasing and farmers were struggling to earn reliable incomes due to soil erosion and outdated farming methods. Many children were exposed to family violence.

Thanks to your support, your sponsored child and other children in the Cuenca del Rio Mira community have improved access to education, clean water and healthcare, and there is greater awareness of child rights.

Together we've achieved so much

26 schools have improved access to clean water

Water tanks were erected in these schools and a drinking water system was rebuilt in one neighbourhood.

  • Water committees have been set up and trained to ensure water facilities remain in working order.
  • Hygiene education campaigns have helped to increase the number of families who boil water before drinking and wash their hands before eating.

Child malnutrition has been reduced in the community

Mothers learned about infant and child nutrition and took part in demonstrations on how to cook healthy meals.

  • Vulnerable families have been supported to grow vegetables, poultry and other small livestock so they have nutritious food for their children and excess produce to sell for income.
  • Volunteer health promoters have been trained in primary healthcare, prevention of common childhood illness and they now spread important health and hygiene information throughout the community.
  • Parish Health Committees are fully functioning. They help to promote maternal and child health and encourage pregnant women to access antenatal care services.
  • School farms have been implemented in 20 schools to teach students and parents skills in farming and environmental conservation.

90% percent of local teachers have completed skills training

They have learned how to be more effective and they are now more motivated in their work.

  • 20 schools have been renovated and three schools have also been fitted with new playgrounds so children have safer, more engaging places to learn.
  • More than 1,000 children have taken part in a range of recreational activities supported by the project including drama and sports to promote their development and participation in community life.
  • Parent-Teacher Associations now collaborate with the government education office on ongoing improvements to school facilities and teaching quality.
  • Early childhood education centres received equipment and support so that more children aged under five have access to early stimulation and mothers can learn about healthy growth and development in young children.

"Now, thanks to you, we do not go to bed without having dinner, you have ensured our wellbeing."

- Daniel, aged 10