The heartbreaking reality of babies in Cartagena

Small beginnings, big transformations

In Cartagena, being born into poverty should not mean having fewer opportunities. Yet for many babies, their first environment is one of vulnerability. They enter the world in contexts marked by inequality teen mothers with no support networks, unstable incomes, and limited tools to experience full, safe, and nurturing motherhood.

At Fundación Juanfe, we believe that protecting a baby is also protecting the future. That’s why, over a decade ago, we created the Centro Integral de Desarrollo Infantil (CIDI) a space that promotes respectful, conscious parenting focused on early childhood development. We recognize that the well-being of our beneficiaries' children is essential for transforming their lives and family environments.

During the first half of 2025, we provided direct care to 105 babies between 6 and 24 months at the CIDI. For the remaining children, we facilitated enrollment in other local Early Childhood Development Centers, public and private schools, in coordination with ICBF and other institutions. Every child has the right to grow up in a safe and stimulating environment and we work every day to ensure that right is fulfilled.

But our work goes far beyond daily care. 92% of the teen mothers participated in hands-on workshops focused on humane parenting, emotional bonding, and strengthening their parenting skills. We provided practical tools, psychoeducational guidance, and continuous support to help them create loving, secure, and enriching environments for their children and become more confident and empowered caregivers.

We are also committed at the institutional level. We actively participate in the Early Childhood Roundtable and the AEIOTU Practice Community, helping to strengthen Cartagena’s early childhood care ecosystem. We know that lasting change is only possible by joining forces, sharing knowledge, and building strong support networks.

This holistic approach is made possible thanks to the unwavering support of our allies and donors. Every baby who grows up in a safe space, every mother who reclaims her ability to nurture with love and dignity, is a testament to what transformation looks like.

Now more than ever, we must protect and care for the earliest stages of life.
Your donation can make a difference from the very beginning.
Join us in transforming the world one woman, and one baby, at a time.

Links:

• Juanfe fundation