KIDS Support Groups in Brazil

The dedicated team in Brazil is actively working to reach young people affected by parental alcohol use. As part of their ongoing commitment, the team has been visiting various KIDS support groups across the country. 

In recent months, they have also conducted several training sessions aimed at equipping local facilitators to open new support groups in different regions. This expansion ensures that more children and teens have access to a safe space where they can feel understood and supported.

These support groups offer much more than prevention education. They create a stable and welcoming environment where participants can engage in various activities, enjoy moments of joy and laughter, and most importantly, build lasting friendships with peers who share similar situations. These connections often extend beyond the group meetings, becoming an important source of strength and resilience in the children's lives.

In addition to the ongoing KIDS support groups, the team is making a powerful impact through two specialized action projects aimed at supporting juvenile offenders – “Free to Live” and “Total Freedom”.  

The “Free to Live” project operates within the Temporary Socio-Educational Assistance Centre in Blumenau, SC. This support group meets twice a week, offering young offenders a consistent and structured opportunity to reflect, learn, and grow. The program provides more than just a temporary diversion – it fosters emotional resilience and life skills that empower participants to make positive choices for their futures. Through guided discussions, group activities, and personal mentoring, the youth are encouraged to explore their potential beyond their current circumstances.

Complementing this is the “Total Freedom” project, another weekly support group also based in Blumenau, designed with similar goals. It provides a safe and nonjudgmental space where participants can share their experiences and build a sense of community. What makes these initiatives particularly unique is their relationship-based approach in environments where hope and trust are often scarce.

Both programs aim to break the cycle of offending behavior by addressing root causes such as trauma, substance use in the family, and social exclusion. “Free to Live” and “Total Freedom” not only reduce the risk of reoffending but also contribute to long-term reintegration.

Thank you so much for supporting this valuable project in Brazil!