Because of reasons ranging from civil war to drug abuse, to poverty, to child abuse and other types of violence, the reasons for street children and child abandonment are many. It is the horrible reality facing the thousands of children living on the streets. A few mind boggling facts:
-Last year (2008-2009) a child was abandoned in Guatemala city every 4 days. Most were babies.
-More than 10 children die every week as a result of violence, 52% of these from gunshot wounds.
-90% of children on the streets have been victims of some form of sexual abuse
-29% of children aged five to fourteen are involved in child labour and are being sent out to work in difficult and dangerous conditions (UN).
-1200 children were orphaned by Hurricane Stan in 2005
It is an unbelievable reality. But it is very real.
More info at Toybox
All facts found at toybox.
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