There are many dimensions of poverty in South America. Because much of the continent’s population lives in large urban centers, urban poverty is a serious problem. Hundreds of thousands of children, who have no home, no family, and little food, are left to wander the streets of the big cities. Rural communities suffer from common problems such as poor sanitation and lack of clean water. Many families simply cannot generate enough income to buy adequate food. Years of political unrest in some countries has only exacerbated the problem.

But ADRA is there—working throughout South America to build livelihoods and lives for those who need a fresh start. To learn more about our projects in the tabs above.

Conquering Tuberculosis in Peru

"Who can tell me the symptoms of tuberculosis?” asks ADRA health educator Zaida Vizcarra, who is dressed as a bright-red apple one of the many “supernutritious foods” that help fight off the deadly and highly contagious respiratory disease.

Nancy’s New Beginning

"What will I do now?" thought Nancy as she tossed in her bed. She lay awake in the early morning hours filled with a sense of loneliness and heartache. After years of a difficult marriage that produced three beautiful children, her husband had abandoned them.

Fall 2009 ADRA Works

ADRA continues to work in South America and around the world to save lives, improve healthcare, expand educational opportunities, and increase independence.

Peru Personal Experience

Less then a hundred years ago over 90% of the indigenous people were literally slaves. They were bought and sold with the land. They were not permitted to learn the official language of the country, use western clothing, or go to school.