KIDS Support Groups in Brazil

In Brazil there is an on going need for more kids support groups. Children from families where parents have issues with substance abuse can join a safe and child friendly space where they can be free to be children and learn to cope with their emotions and thoughts about their parents addiction. Blue Cross Brazil has developped child friendly material that enables the children to be at the centre of attention and have their voice heard. 

On the 28th  November 2017 a ­new group was started in Santa Maria (State of Rio Grande do Sul). In addition another group was reactivated in a Pioneer Baptist Church and on 29 November ­2017 in Panambi (State of Rio Grande do Sul) at Videira¹s Church.

Alcohol addiction is widespread in Brazil: 11.7 million people are affected. Children suffer the most as a result of their parents’ alcohol consumption. Children have to assume responsibilities at home at a young age, they are often neglected and feel alone. In 2013 the Blue Cross of Brazil established the KIDS Support Groups prevention project for children of alcohol-dependent parents. At weekly meetings children have the opportunity to talk in a child friendly context about their problems. They are encouraged to recognise their strengths and develop self-confidence. The aim is to prevent children with difficult social backgrounds from sliding into alcohol or drug dependence.

This work is only possible when we can find funds to run the activities and this is why your support is vital to us. These children are at high risk of becoming socially excluded and even addicted unless they receive the appropriate support. In Brazil this kind of prevention work is not sustainably funded and the Blue Cross has to rely on fundraising to make the work possible.

Start the new year by making a difference by supporting this project. We look forward to updating you of our activities during the year.