Stand by Me provides life-changing care to over 3,800 children living in poverty in 7 countries, from Colombia, to Ethiopia, to Myanmar. In Colombia, Stand by Me works in the heart of the Banana Zone, a couple of hours away from the bustling port city of Barranquilla. In this small, neglected town there is no investment and the only job opportunities are long and strenuous days of manual labour on the banana plantations for minimum wage. Alongside the challenges of living in poverty, many children lack love and care at home and contend with the emotional and psychological effects of neglect. But despite the heartbreaking challenges, the Emmanuel Care Centre is a hub full of laughter and hope, run by excellent staff determined to bring joy and raise children’s aspirations. Children receive a hot meal each day, attend medical clinics and have a safe place to play. The educational support they receive plugs gaps in the children’s learning and the centre support the children’s families with housing and food assistance as well as vital parenting training. The commitment of the staff and expertise of the psychologist are transforming children's lives and helping them to reach their potential.