Therapy for ecuadorian children to break the cycle

GLOBAL GIVING 

SEPTEMBER REPORT 

Therapy for ecuadorian children to break the cycle

Despite the ongoing social challenges in Ecuador, Fundación JUCONI remains steadfast in its mission to support children, adolescents, and families affected by domestic violence. Over the past few months, we have seen promising outcomes in many of the families participating in our psychosocial therapies. Notably, there has been a significant reduction in violence across all households. We have also , in some families, transitioned from separate therapies for children and parents to intensifying family sessions, as we believe that both parents and children are now ready to engage in these collaborative dynamics. 

Our therapeutic approach continues to foster healing and resilience within families, as evidenced by the positive behavioral changes we've observed. These changes include improved family dynamics, a reduction in verbal and physical violence from parents towards children, enhanced academic performance among the kids, and improvements in behavior. Additionally, we have seen advancements in personal hygiene and a richer vocabulary among the children. Our therapeutic approach remains individualized, tailored specifically to each case to ensure the best possible outcome seen. 

In addition to the counseling and support services, we have organized various community activities that provide children with opportunities for personal expression and growth. Art and sports workshops have offered new creative outlets, enabling children to explore different disciplines and express themselves in healthy, constructive ways. For instance, workshops such as self-portrait sessions have not only helped children gain a better understanding of themselves but also improved their self-esteem. In sports, we have focused on team activities, where we have observed enhancements in teamwork and leadership skills among the children

On World Environment Day, we took a group of children to the Botanical Garden of Guayaquil, where they learned about the importance of caring for nature and the valuable role it plays in our lives. This trip instilled a deeper appreciation for the environment and its impact on our well-being, further reinforcing the holistic development of the children we serve.

In recognition of World Health Day, JUCONI organized medical brigades to provide healthcare services to children in the community. These brigades conducted routine health checks, measuring weight, height, and administering age-appropriate vaccinations, along with general medical care. These interventions ensured that the children are healthy and well-cared for, an essential factor in supporting their overall development.

We can confidently say that these past few months have brought significant progress for the families in our program. Not only has violence decreased, but the children have remained actively engaged in the education system, showing excellent academic performance and a strong desire to learn. This momentum highlights the success of our efforts and the transformative impact JUCONI continues to have in fostering safe, nurturing environments for children and their families.

Although the social crisis Ecuador is going through, Fundación JUCONI has remained steadfast in its mission to support children, adolescents, and families grappling with domestic violence. Through our comprehensive approach, we strive not only to address immediate challenges but also to foster long-term resilience and well-being.

Over the past months, we have sustained our intensive interventions with 30 families who entered our program. Our dedicated team of psychologists and social workers has implemented a range of tailored strategies, providing ongoing therapeutic support to facilitate healing and positive growth within these households. From individual counseling sessions to family therapy sessions, we aim to create a nurturing environment where every child feels valued and supported.

As well, education plays a pivotal role in breaking the cycle of violence and poverty. With the commencement of the school year in April, we distributed essential school supply kits to 80 children, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed academically. Furthermore, we provided school shoes to complement their uniforms, easing the financial burden on families and instilling a sense of pride and motivation in the students. The heartfelt appreciation expressed by parents underscores the transformative impact of education on their children's lives, inspiring a renewed commitment to their academic journey.

On the other hand, nutrition is another critical aspect of our holistic approach. Recognizing the link between food insecurity and vulnerability to violence, we have continued our monthly distribution of food baskets to each family. These provisions not only alleviate immediate hunger but also promote healthier eating habits, mitigating the risk of malnutrition among children a pervasive issue in the communities we serve. By addressing basic needs, we empower families to focus on nurturing their children's overall well-being.

Community engagement remains at the heart of our efforts to effect lasting change. Despite the challenges posed by school vacations, we have maintained a robust schedule of workshops and recreational activities in the community. These initiatives provide children with safe and constructive outlets for self-expression and personal growth, fostering resilience and equipping them with essential life skills. In anticipation of the new academic year, we organized collaborative cleanup events, or "mingas de limpieza," within the community and at local schools. These initiatives not only enhance the physical environment but also promote a sense of ownership and pride among residents and students alike. By fostering a culture of collective responsibility, we empower individuals to actively contribute to the well-being of their community.