The number of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in the Myanmar community is a growing concern. The Myanmar Red Cross Society and UNICEF recognize the need to support at the community level the protection of OVC’s to reduce their risk of being abused and exploited. In response the MRCS have implemented a pilot Child Protection Project, community based initiatives which aim to increase general awareness of OVC needs, support OVC’s through care, assistance and protection based activities with respective families and their community.

Components and Activities

Objective
To protect orphans and vulnerable children from abuse and exploitation by creating and supporting communities to build mechanisms and networks ensuring a protective environment for children.

Activities
-Training of staff and RCVs on Child Rights and Child Protection
-Community awareness raising for key community members
-Community workshop for parents and care givers
-Support Group regular meeting
-Community social function for OVC
-Game and play activities for OVC
-Family care and support

Target Beneficiaries
- Community leaders, Parents and Care givers gain knowledge on CR/CP

- Support groups established for communities and vulnerable families meet regularly at the project sites to strengthen community networks

- Orphans and vulnerable child including trafficked victims across ten townships reached and benefited from direct care and support services

Timeline
2007 November to 2009 March

Target Areas (location)
Ayeyerwaddy Division
- Laputta Township
- Ngputaw Township

Mandalay Division
- Naung oo Township

Rakhine State
- Kyauk-phyu Township
- Man Aung Township
- Sittway Township
- Thwande Township

Taninthayari Division
- Dawei Township
- Kawthaung Township
- Myeik Township

Partners
Funding – UNICEF