This programme involves supporting orphan girls between the ages of 3 and 18 years old by providing shelter, food, sanitary products, education materials and schooling.

Left with no-one to turn to, these girls would grow up on the streets, vulnerable to all forms of abuse, without education and little motivation or sense of hope. Education is difficult to obtain in Ethiopia for both adults and children alike, but this is particularly the case for young girls.

As the families are poor, they are usually expected to stay at home to help with the daily chores. This will often involve fetching water over long distances. This is not only bad for their long-term health (because of the heavy weight they carry while young) but it also means that they do not have time to go to school. Sadly many of these children are also orphaned due to the high prevalence of AIDS. LUCIA and its partners want to be there for as many of these children as we can and to give them the chance that they deserve. With an education they can help themselves and others; they become motivated, empowered and the impact that this has can help to change their entire future.

LUCIA also provides occasional support for Little Voice, an NGO that runs a programme providing safe shelter for street children in Ethiopia. They also run a school and provide exciting activities for the children at their summer camps. The children really enjoy themselves and are educated at the same time. It is hoped that the school can be expanded in the near future to accommodate more children. The children have usually had a tragic start in life and Little Voice helps them to move the focus from their unfortunate past, into a brighter, safer and more positive future.