Why We Exist
In Bolivia, over 9,000 children live in state run homes. As young adults they are required to leave these homes when they reach the age of 18. Often they struggle with this transition and statistics tells us that 85% turn or return to living on the street and homelessness.
These young people are intelligent and capable of completing a post-secondary vocational, college or university education, but have neither the finances to pay for this education nor a place to live nor a supportive network of relationships while doing so.
By providing a place to live, food and clothing, mentoring, support and coaching, and by paying for their post-secondary education, La Jornada works to break the cycle of poverty by intervening at this critical point in their lives.
It is our desire to build a foundation from which these young men can develop self-esteem and find a role in Bolivian society as educated and productive adults.