Colombia

It is estimated that more than six million children live in poverty in the South American country of Colombia, and that the majority of them suffer from malnutrition. Millions of children do not have access to even the most basic education.

To make matters far worse for Colombian children, the country has suffered four decades of civil war that has displaced three million people and killed over 20,000 each year. Landmines kill at least three people each day in Colombia and mine use is increasing, posing significant risks to women and children. Despite a law prohibiting the recruitment of children under age 18 in the National Army, there are still an estimated 6,000 to 7,000 child soldiers in urban militias and other armed forces.

In such a harsh environment, Kids Alive is providing education, nutrition, improved health, the love of Jesus, and biblical values to the most vulnerable and needy children.  In 2005, Kids Alive affiliated with the Christian Education Center School in the remote village of Guacamayal, which lies in the province of Magdalena in northern Colombia.