300 children are done begging in Guayaquil

Ecuadornews:

The Clean Hands Citizen Participation Association rescued 300 children who asked for charity in the streets of Guayaquil. The organization works with the Ministry of Economic and Social Inclusion (MIES) as part of the Da dignidad campaign (give dignity).

This state portfolio yesterday activated a donation point in Malecón and Aguirre streets (outside of the Governorate of Guayas), which will allow the collection of toys, clothing and non-perishable food these will subsequently be delivered to the children.

Amanda Arboleda, coordinator of MIES, explained that the initiative, which emerged seven years ago, is part of the program of progressive eradication of begging. “The best way to help them is not to give money, because behind every child there is an adult who exploits it.” The official added that in that period, 84% of the people who asked for charity decreased.

Diana Coello, political chief of the Governorate of Guayas, warned that children are exposed to being run over, suffer sexual abuse or are prone to assault. “In 2016, we received complaints from boys who were begging. We hope we do not have more. ” Daniel Torres, director of The Clean Hands Citizen Participation Association explained that since November 20, they have approached children who ask for money on Avenida 25 de Julio, and around La Pradera and Mercado de la Caraguay.

“When we identify them, we get in touch with MIES to intervene.” This Saturday will be a lightning championship with the participation of children (from 5 to 15 years old) who left the streets. The activity will be in K and 18 (south of the city). On December 22, the Christmas party will be held for the 300 rescued, in which they will receive gifts. In the points that will receive the donations are the Joaquín Gallegos Lara building (north), in the four and a half kilometer of the Bombero Avenue, in Illingworth Street and Malecón (downtown) and in the Colinas del Valle cooperative, in front of Primavera 2 (Duran). (I)

Source: http://www.eltelegrafo.com.ec/noticias/sociedad/1/300-ninos-dejaron-la-mendicidad-en-guayaquil