A project in Bolivia was working with street boys, and through a drop-in centre and a hostel was providing them with basic health checks, food, and education. One day two young girls came to the project, in desperate need of medical attention and refuge from the streets. Although the project was focused on helping boys from the streets, they could not turn away the two girls.

As they gradually convalesced it became apparent that the project was not an appropriate place for the two girls. Surrounded by many troubled and aggressive older boys, it was intimidating and potentially dangerous for them to continue to stay. Unsure how to resolve the situation, the project contacted their local Viva network to ask for their help and advice. Through the network the girls were relocated to another project specifically designed to help rehabilitate and educate girls from the streets. Locating an appropriate project was vital here in keeping the girls safe and healthy mentally, physically, and emotionally.

Thobekile, a carer in a Zimbabwean children’s project, was struggling in her work with sexually abused girls. She was finding it difficult to help them open up and share their experiences with her. The Zimbabwe network, resourced by Viva, was able to offer the project staff some Counselling and Play Therapy training, and this was of enormous value to Thobekile.

She says, “It is easier now to piece together details of my children’s lives. Before in a regular counselling session they were very careful about what they said and very guarded, but now I have learned this story-telling game and other ideas it makes so much difference to me. This game has provided a safe environment for the girls to share with me, and I feel I can truly help them now.”