Children of sex workers experience harassment and discrimination. They witness violence and abuse and often follow in their mother's footsteps. To stop this cycle and to protect them, we will provide educational tuition and academic supplies so they can attend boarding schools. Twenty-five children ranging from nursery school to university/vocational training will be sponsored every year until each completes her/his education.
The most challenging issue is that sex workers stay in lodges with their children thus exposing them to sexual violence. The children end up dropping out of school at an incredibly early age. 20-40% of these minors start their careers as sex workers to help their families with the basics of living such as housing, food, water, and medical care. Rarely is there enough money for educational tuition, the uniforms required and the supplies that schools demand.
Attending school will help prevent underage sex work induction and its associated health, social and economic consequences. A support system between parents, schools, and the sponsoring NGOs will be created for the success of the project. Focus on attending to the personal needs of each student and family throughout their education will be undertaken to help launch him/her into successful adulthood. It is imperative for these children not to become a statistic of generational prostitution!
Impact is evident when these children are NOT employed as sex workers. They are exposed to new career paths that foster sustainable employment. This program affects their mental and emotional health and well-being. The infection and impact of HIV is diminished. It instills in them core values of being personally responsible for their future. Their success strengthens their families, community, and country.
