Trocaire (Northern Ireland)
In the poor urban districts in Philippines, many families live in severe poverty, and as a result all family members, including children, need to work in order to survive. Many children work as labourers. Those who were lucky to have a basic education, often leave school early in order to provide support to their families. In many cases, work is irregular, badly paid and uncertain, and child workers are vulnerable to mistreatment and exploitation, and often violence at the hands of scrupulous and abusive employers. This programme will tackle child exploitation and mistreatment of child labourers and young workers, along with their families in five poor urban districts of the Philippines. The project will develop and organise existing youth groups and children's clubs to become hubs, where over 5000 street children will be able to come together in a safe and secure environment.
