FHI Logo
    Search fhi.org
pixel
 
Infinite Menus, Copyright 2006, OpenCube Inc. All Rights Reserved.
pixel pixel
 

Topics

Orphans and Other Vulnerable Children

Email this to a friend

Orphans.fhi.org Contribute Now Orphans.fhi.org
Bookmark and Share

Find related documents

Numerous lessons have emerged from FHI's considerable experience in Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean in managing programs that support orphans and other vulnerable children (OVC).  Among them are that OVC interventions must

  • emphasize community care rather than institutional care
  • strengthen the care and coping capacities of families and communities
  • involve children and youth as active participants
  • build broad collaboration among key stakeholders in all sectors

Many orphans and other vulnerable children are HIV-positive. Often, they must care for siblings and chronically ill family members. Many live in financially stretched households and suffer from poor nutrition, and some may engage in high-risk behaviors to support themselves and their family members. In addition to the psychological and emotional difficulties related to losing a parent, these vulnerable children face the added burden of AIDS-related stigma and discrimination, which often contributes to them missing school and lacking access to basic healthcare.

This means that multisectoral approaches and long-term perspectives are essential. OVC interventions need to have a comprehensive approach in addressing the needs of children and their families.  They need to promote policies and laws that create a more supportive environment for children and fulfill their human rights.  They must also be integrated with the whole range of HIV and AIDS prevention, care, and support services.

Learn about The Tomorrow ProjectSM, FHI's program for development and holistic services strengthening to improve the lives of children around the world.