Colombia
Overview
Economic and political challenges in Venezuela have led to the collapse of the country – resulting in massive food shortages and virtual shutdowns of public services such as health care and education.
Seeking a better life, over 5 million Venezuelans have fled their country – of whom 2 million have settled in neighbouring Colombia.
Along with local churches, Tearfund has responded to meet the needs of refugee families in Barranquilla, Colombia.
Quick Facts
Our Project
Our project in Colombia works with the local church to provide refugee children with nutritious meals and support as their parents search for work and attempt to provide for their family in Colombia.
Venezuela Refugee Care
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Problem
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Challenges
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Activities
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Details
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Outcome
Problem
Millions of Venezuelan refugees have migrated to Colombia, escaping the disastrous situation in their home country. Many of them live on the outskirts of Barranquilla, Colombia right beside the city garbage dump. Access to food is challenging, with many of them only possessing the personal possessions they could fit in a suitcase.
Challenges
The garbage dump is not a safe place for children, and the ground is contaminated with toxic chemicals. Makeshift residences are prone to collapse. To survive, many women have turned to prostitution, doing anything they can to provide for their children at home.
Activities
Partnering with local churches, we are providing 600 children with daily meals. Church volunteers also play fun activities with the children and loving care as their parents try to establish new lives. Additionally, this project is helping families navigate the legal system to apply for refugee status and start the process of residency. They are also helping to secure medical assistance for refugees who require it.
Details
- Location: Barranquilla, Colombia
- Timeframe: 2019-2020
- Total Project Budget: Need data
Outcome
With the help of your donations, over 600 Venezuelan refugee children now have daily, nutritious meals. Families are being shown the love of God through the local church and coming to know him. They are receiving help navigating Colombia’s immigration system as they continue their journey to rebuild their lives.
Stories of Transformation
The Long Journey
Imagine walking from Fort McMurray to Vancouver. Now imagine doing it with 2 young children. Luz Helena is thankful her and her grandchildren are safe, taking refuge in Colombia after fleeing their home in Venezuela. Although conditions aren’t ideal, the local church has welcomed them in. “They have embraced us like family.”
Elainy the Pharmacist
In Venezuela Elainy and her husband had a succesful life. But when the country collapsed they lost everything and were forced to flee. Just about when all seemed lost, the local church came and provided her hungry children with food. “I no longer have to worry about when their next meal will be. I am extremely grateful for the church running the program.”
The Hope of Return
Living next to a garbage dump is less than ideal – but it is far better than what their lives were turning into in Venezuela. Giselle fears for her future. But she has hope, knowing that the church is there, providing them with daily hot meals and her with post-natal care.
Partners
