About Bolivia
Bolivia is a landlocked country in South America with a population of about 11 million. Ranked as one of the poorest countries in Latin America, Bolivia has a low life expectancy, with the majority of its population having no health insurance or access to health care. National poverty affects many areas, including the quantity and quality of education children receive, food security in poor households, and the lack of support services for families in distress. Violence against women and children is particularly high, and unfortunately on the rise in cities such as El Alto.
El Alto is the second largest city in Bolivia with a population of just under 1 million, 76% of which are Aymara. Located on the rim of the La Paz valley, and sitting at 4,150 metres above sea level, it is the highest major metropolis in the world. El Alto is also one of the fastest growing cities in Bolivia, with migrants moving from the countryside for better economic opportunities.
Bolivia is one of the most diverse countries in the world, with a wide range of ecosystems ranging from tropical jungles to the altiplano of the Andes. In 2015 La Paz was named a UNESCO wonder city, and since that time tourism has seen a steady increase. Bolivia is increasingly seen as a ‘must see’ destination for travelers, and many who travel there vow to return to see more of what Bolivia has to offer. Bolivia’s wikitravel page provides information for those of you who are now piqued about what there is to see and do in Bolivia!
HELP Bolivia recognizes the need for support for impoverished children and families in distress. The support programs we run at the Tahuantinsuyo Community Centre are vital to the families that are referred to the Centre, and provide the HELP they need to survive and thrive. HELP Bolivia is helping build brighter futures for the families at Tahuantinsuyo, and for the future of Bolivia.
Here is further Reading about Bolivia, including statistics and other information about poverty, violence against women and children, and other topics:
Some of our pictures from Bolivia
