Eight-year-old Juan understands the dangers of living under the rule of gangs.
"It is dangerous here," Juan says. "Sometimes at night there are shootings between the gangs and a stray bullet could hit anyone. When we hear the shootings, we immediately lie down on the floor. It’s the first thing we do."
Juan knows not to get involved with gangs, but poverty and violence around him limit his options. His brother was imprisoned for gang activity, so he must help make ends meet for his family.
“It is dangerous here,” Juan says about living under the rule of gangs.
"Right now I am not going to school," he says. Juan is not attending school because it is located near a street that borders the territories of a rival gang and it is too dangerous to get there. "My mother told me that from now on I should look for something to do and so I’m working on a construction site," he says.
"We thought about leaving this area, but if we leave and come back the gangs are going to kill us.”
Fortunately, help is possible through Childhood Rescue. It brings much needed aid to the most vulnerable families. It offers protection for children through the presence of World Vision staff. It mobilises local groups and governments to make lasting change.
The sound of gun shots is familiar to children growing up in a city with one of the highest murder rates in the world.
What can I do?
It’s easy to feel helpless in situations like this but rest assured… you, us, everyone, together, can help make life-changing impact. And we are!
Here are two different ways you can be a part of the change.
- 1
Donate
Every gift makes a difference. Our Childhood Rescue fund helps children living in the world’s most dangerous places.
Donate Now - 2
Share on Social Media
Raising awareness is vital. Help make people aware of the situation and the difference we can make, together.
