PASO: A New Project for the Protection of Children in Street Situations in Peru

In Lima, many children and adolescents live and work on the streets, exposed to violence, and severe discrimination. For many, the street becomes a means of survival following family violence, family breakdown, or extreme poverty. Over the past several years, we have witnessed a worrying increase in the number of children in street situations, as well as a deterioration in their living conditions. Finding food, securing shelter, and simply surviving have become increasingly dangerous and challenging for these children. 

In response to this reality, FAAI is launching the PASO project (Programme for Support and Solidarity for Youth in Street Situations in Peru) in partnership with three new local organizations: Sinergia por la Infancia, Casa Generación, and the collective Hagamos visible lo invisible (“Making the Invisible Visible”). Together, we are joining forces around a shared objective: to strengthen the protection and support available to children and young people in street situations in Lima while promoting and defending their rights. 

PASO delivers a range of concrete actions on the ground. Outreach teams conduct regular street visits throughout Lima to meet young people where they are, build trusting relationships, and guide them towards appropriate support and care services. Workshops are also organized with children, young people, and their families on topics such as positive parenting, emotional well-being, and violence prevention. 

"I left home when I was very young because there was a lot of violence, and I was not going to school. My dream was to study." Julio, formerly in a street situation 

As Julio’s testimony illustrates, behind every experience of street life lies a story of violence, separation, and aspirations that have too often been denied. To address these realities, our partners also provide educational, psychosocial, and school support, alongside artistic, sports, and cultural activities that help young people rebuild their lives, regain confidence, and develop new perspectives for the future. 

At the same time, FAAI supports the collective Hagamos visible lo invisible, which carries out advocacy initiatives to promote respect for the rights of children and young people in street situations at both national and international levels. At the heart of this approach are the young people themselves, who are trained and supported to speak out, share their experiences, and advocate for their rights with public authorities and international institutions. 

Through the PASO project, we aim to create lasting change in the lives of thousands of children and young people in street situations, like Julio, by providing them with protection, support, and opportunities to build a better future.