Kaifeng

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

The city of Kaifeng is situated in Henan province. Its historic sites attract many visitors, and the local government is hoping for an increase in tourism. Other sources of income and employment are agriculture, industry and commerce. When compared to other regions, Henan, however, remains relatively impoverished. In contrast, neighbouring provinces on the coast are flourishing, and many people from Henan are moving there in search of a better life.

Since 2011, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Kaifeng.

1 in 5
Young people are unemployed

Youth unemployment

People living in the rural areas of the country often face particularly hard living conditions, but there is also urban poverty in cities like Kaifeng. Households where the adults have a lower level of education, and are either unemployed or underemployed are most likely to face hardships. A record number of young people are graduating high school and competing for university admissions across China. Even with a master’s degree, many young people struggle to find employment. In 2022, youth unemployment reached its highest level at 19.3%, leaving millions of young people uncertain about their future prospects.

100M
Children have experienced long separation from a parent

Effects of migration on children

Migration is often hardest on children: a 2015 UNICEF study estimates that close to 100 million children had experienced prolonged separation from at least one parent. Parents migrate to cities for work, often taking their children with them. Some 36 million children migrate with their parents, but due to the household registration system they have restricted access to education and healthcare services in their new homes. Another 70 million children are left with relatives back home who cannot care for them properly. Away from the protection of their parents, these children struggle to receive emotional, physical, and academic support.

Your support makes a difference for children in Kaifeng

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.
60
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
30
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
We support young people until they are able to care for themselves and live independently (photo: SOS Children’s Villages China).

How your support helps in Kaifeng

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.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.