Help working children into school

Earlier this month, Tania and Nicky, Trustees of ViaNiños UK, had the opportunity to visit our partner organisations in Ecuador—CENIT and UBECI—and see firsthand the impact of your support.

Despite an increasingly challenging context in the country, including heightened insecurity and economic hardship, these organisations continue to deliver vital services to children and families working in informal markets.

Accompanied by social workers Ramiro and Vilma, the Trustees visited the San Roque and Chiriyacu-Camal markets. Although regular playgroups were paused for the holidays, efforts were underway to enrol children in an upcoming summer camp, running from mid-July through to early August. For a small fee of $1 per child to cover transport, the summer camp will offer many activities including day trips to museums, a swimming pool, a fair, and a dinosaur park.

They also saw exciting progress at the San Roque market, where CENIT’s playgroup will soon move into a significantly larger space, creating a more welcoming and functional environment for the children.

The most moving moments came during conversations with mothers at the markets. Several spoke about how much their children have benefited from CENIT’s educational support, particularly with homework help. One mother, an Indigenous market vendor, shared that her daughter—who once took part in CENIT’s programmes—has recently graduated with a degree in civil engineering. It was a powerful reminder of the long-term impact of your support.

These stories are a testament to the resilience of Ecuadorian families and the dedication of our partners—and to the role you play in making this possible.

Thank you for continuing to stand with us. Your generosity is helping to change lives.