Twelve Strategies for Supporting Orphans & Vulnerable Children

These strategies illustrate how community-based organizations support orphans and vulnerable children. These strategies are based on principles that have been agreed upon and endorsed by a broad constituency of community and faith-based organizations, foundations, and international agencies serving children. They serve as a guide to “best practice” for those who are funding or implementing responses to children in need.

1 Focus on the most vulnerable children, not only those orphaned by HIV/AIDS.

2 Strengthen the capacity of families and communities to care for children.

3 Reduce stigma and discrimination.

4 Support HIV prevention and awareness, particularly among youth.

5 Strengthen the ability of caregivers and youth to earn livelihoods.

6 Provide material assistance to those who are too old or ill to work.

7 Ensure access to health care, life-saving medications, and home-based care.

8 Provide daycare and other support services that ease the burden on caregivers.

9 Support schools and ensure access to education, for girls as well as boys.

10 Support the psychosocial, as well as material, needs of children.

11 Engage children and youth in the decisions that effect their lives.

12 Protect children from abuse, gender discrimination, and labor exploitation.