UBECI

In Ecuador, most women in poverty start their working day in the markets at 3am. Children as young as two accompany their mothers to the markets to assist in bagging produce and tending stalls. These mothers have no choice but to bring their children to work with them, in order to protect them from the streets, where they would be vulnerable to crime and substance abuse.

Although education is free in Ecuador, most of these families have sold in markets for generations and do not see the value of education, and hence raise their children in the markets with them. Or if they do send their children to school, most of them are illiterate or cannot afford to buy essential school supplies.

The UBECI Foundation is a nongovernmental organization that has been providing services to the street children of Quito Ecuador since 1999. UBECI provides educational services, recreational activities, and social support to over 600 at-risk children, so that they have a break from their work in the markets, and more importantly, an opportunity to obtain a brighter future.

Alongside these services, at the beginning of every school year UBECI provides these children with school support workshops and school kits that they cannot afford. However, in order to do this, it will cost $5000 to provide for all the children in UBECI’s current reach.

Every school kit costs around $12 each and includes notebooks, pencils, pens, colored pencils, crayons, erasers and glue. With a small donation you can have a huge impact on a child’s life.

The holiday season is a time of joy and gratitude, reminding us of our many blessings. Yet, for numerous children and families in Ecuador, life paints a starkly different picture.

Ecuador's vibrant open air markets are a sight to behold, adorned with colorful produce, grains, legumes, meats, and other food products. While these markets provide essential income for families on the brink of poverty, they also shelter children who work 12-hour days alongside their mothers selling goods.

Children as young as three wake up at 4am to travel to the open air markets to assist in bagging produce and tending stalls, even on Christmas day.

The UBECI Foundation is a nongovernmental organization that has been providing services to the street children of Quito Ecuador since 1999. UBECI provides educational services, recreational activities, and social support to over 600 at-risk children, so that they have a break during the day, and more importantly, an opportunity to obtain a brighter future.

Every year, UBECI hosts a Christmas program, a rare chance for children to celebrate away from the bustling markets. Music, games, toys, and nourishing food bring joy. Children also receive much-needed clothing.

UBECI is 100% funded by generous supporters like you, and we need your help.

Even a donation of $5 can give Ecuadorian children and families a Christmas unlike their everyday struggles. Please, contribute today to help us reach our goal.

How You Can Help!

A $20 donation will pay for Christmas food and treats provided to a child and their family.

A $30 donation would pay for the clothing provided to a child and their family.

A $50 donation would provide funds for the costs of providing food, toys, and clothing to one family that is working in the open air market.

Every child deserves to grow up in a safe environment, protected and filled with opportunities for full development. However, many vulnerable children face risks that threaten their well-being, from domestic violence to lack of access to basic care. With your support, we can ensure a safer and more hopeful future for them.

The Safe Childhood Campaign aims to provide safe learning spaces, emotional support, and essential resources to at-risk children. Through our Play, Do, and Learn program, we focus on child protection, psychological care, and education about children's rights. Our goal is to create nurturing environments where children feel safe and can grow with confidence.

Every donation allows us to extend protection to more children, ensuring they receive the necessary support and building a system that prioritizes their well-being. Together, we can break the cycle of vulnerability and give them the opportunity for a bright future.

Women are key to economic and social development, yet many still face barriers, such as limited access to formal education. Financial training is a necessary resource to empower women and their families.

The Women, Entrepreneurship, and Financial Management Campaign is dedicated to providing training and tools for women to develop their own businesses and manage their finances effectively through training programs and mentoring.

Your donation will enable more women to receive the education and support they need to succeed in their entrepreneurial endeavors. Each contribution represents an opportunity for women to transform their lives and create a positive, lasting impact on their children and families.