Although Argentina has an extremely high literacy rate—at 97 percent—there is still serious deficiency in educational support for marginalized children. After the economic crisis, many lived in severe poverty, which left a larger percentage of children with inadequate living conditions and educational support. In response, comedores (food kitchens) and hogares (shelters) were developed to provide basic needs. These centers have become the jewels of the La Plata community and are in need of manpower and future development to continue providing essential services to the children.

Usually after such a massive economic crisis, there are extremely elevated school dropout rates. However, Argentina has not experienced this phenomenon. Studies show that despite the loss in family incomes, Argentines have not removed their children from school. There are many different theories behind this response, such as a lack of jobs for dropouts. Others suggest that it is a reflection of the strong educational values, while some fear the only reason children remain in school is because of the subsidy programs that provide meals for students.

Even with children attending school, there is still a high demand for educational support outside of school, which includes tutor programs, community libraries, and supplemental educational programs in the arts, agriculture, health, hygiene, physical activity, sex education, and peer mentorship. In addition to educational support, these children are in dire need of emotional guidance as they struggle to adjust to a life that was foreign to them before the crisis.

A huge coping mechanism for many Argentine youth is drugs and alcohol. The creation of community youth centers is an essential tool that can divert them from substance abuse. NGOs working on youth support and education projects are always looking for positive examples for the Argentine marginalized youth—a role that many interns and volunteers provide.

Read more about Youth and Education programs and opportunities initiated by our Community Partners in Argentina.

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