​THE PROS
Brazil is the largest country in South America.  It borders every South American country except Chile and Ecuador.   With over 4500 miles of magnificent coastline this country draws beautiful people.   The beaches are a big part of the countries culture offering some of the most vibrant boardwalks in the world.  
The countries landscape is very varied with dense forests, including the Amazon in the North.  From rugged hills, to fine forests, to plateaus and sprawling wetlands there is always something to do for those that crave adventure.
Most Brazilians are decedents of three ethnic groups Amerindians, European settlers (mainly from Portugal), and Africans. This diversity of cultures has created a rich religious, musical, and culinary culture.   For all its troubles and contradictions this is a country worth visiting!
 
THE CONS
Brazil is a nation of stark contrasts.  Although the nation has some of the wealthiest in the world, many more suffer from extreme poverty.  6.2 million people live on US$1.30 per person per day.
The most vulnerable groups are women and youth.  Homes run by women are very common as husbands leave their families to start new families or look for work. 
In Brazil, an estimated 8 million children live on the streets due to abandonment, AIDS or a death or violence in the home.   Once the children live on the streets their life expectancy decreases to 18 years of age.   These children survive by finding food in trash cans, prostitution, drug running and petty theft.  The sniff glue to shut out the hardship and pain that living on the street brings.
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OUR WORK
We work alongside an organisation that provide a safe haven to children and toddlers.  The organisation provides food, clothing, shelter and education to these children.
The older children and young adults are taught bookkeeping, agriculture, keyboarding skills, sewing and knitting so that they can be integrated back into their community with skills that will allow them to make an income.