Ancud

SOS Children’s Villages supports individual children, young people and families so that they can thrive (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Chile).

Ancud is in southern Chile and has a population of about 42,000 people. The city is situated in the northernmost part of the Chiloé Archipelago, and travelling to and from the city is challenging due to the poor transport infrastructure. The road that reaches Ancud poses many dangers and is often referred to as “the road of death”. With limited accessibility, Ancud remains isolated and suffers from severe socioeconomic challenges such as the lack of employment options.

Since 2003, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Ancud.

26%
Of people in Ancud are living in poverty

Children living in poverty

Ancud’s geography makes finding work difficult. While the Chilean government has implemented successful measures to reduce poverty, Ancud has seen minimal improvement because of its isolation from the mainland. Employment opportunities are scarce, and poverty rates are consistently high at 26%. Severe income inequality has led to worsening social problems within the community like homelessness and alcoholism. These concerns have made it difficult for some families to provide a safe home to raise young children.

20%
Of children lack a primary education

Children need better schools

Chile currently has one of the lowest public spending on primary and secondary education. Access to quality education is limited and largely related to a family’s socio-economic standing, which has further exacerbated income inequality in the country. Public schools and rural primary schools are largely overcrowded with children and have limited sources of funding. The privatization of the education sector also means that money is funneled towards private schools where attendance is not enforced.

Your support makes a difference for children in Ancud

SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
30
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Very tasty! Children are encouraged to learn how to cook some basic dishes so that they can look after themselves when they live independently (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Chile).

How your support helps in Ancud

Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change..