News from Colombia

When a child’s individual needs are looked after, they are free to grow in character and express themselves. They are full of valuable qualities, one of which is kindness, which radiates from eight year old Gualdir in Colombia. 

The Stand by Me Emmanuel Care Centre in Colombia seeks to change the lives of children and families living in poverty in Guacamayal. The community face many issues, one of which is drug use which affects children and adults alike, destroying hopes and putting lives at risk. 

An eye test and glasses can dramatically change a child’s experience of life. When Alvaro told his mother that he was experiencing constant headaches, we made sure he received the help he needed to restore his vision. 

Child abuse is devastating the lives of many children in Guacamayal, Colombia. Our care centre exists to bring care, support, protection and love to children effected by abuse. In an unprecedented event in Guacamayal, the children marched against child abuse. 

On a Saturday evening in the village of St Nicholas-at-Wade, 70 people flocked to the village hall eager for a tasty meal, fantastic entertainment and to hear about the work of Stand by Me in Colombia.

Occupying the largest site in the heart of Guacamayal is a building referred to by children and parents alike as "The Centro". A far cry from the surrounding dark and squalid housing, the Emmanuel Care Centre is a hub exploding with joy and hope. 

Each day José comes to the Stand by Me care centre for food, homework help, games and medical care when needed. However, last year we started to notice some behaviour changes in José and discovered that he was struggling to cope with his parents separation.  

Stand by Me has renovated the Emmanuel Care Centre's canteen with the addition of new tables, chairs and table cloths. Now more children can eat their lunch at one time and enjoy sharing a meal together.