PERU – For the past 15 years, Martha has been a schoolteacher in Iquitos, Peru. Passionate about education and the well-being of her children, she works tirelessly as both a mom and an instructor. And if you could see the happy faces of the kids in her classroom, you’d understand the special rapport that exists between this teacher and her students. But Martha must also look out for vulnerable kids in her community and protect them from predators in Peru.
Tragically, this is one area where even experienced teachers like Martha often need help: teaching their kids about the perils of sexual abuse. The numbers are staggering. Every year in Latin America, some 2 million children and adolescents are sexually exploited. The vast majority of the time, abused kids say the predator was someone they knew and trusted. But thanks to you, Operation Blessing has responded by implementing Yo Digo No (I Say No), an original program created to train elementary school children to protect themselves. Since 2017, in four Latin American countries, we have helped train over 20,000 children and 5,000 adults through the program.
“We are delighted and thankful that Operation Blessing has selected us to bring these important programs for our kids,” Martha said. Teachers at schools like hers undergo training to help them spot and intervene in potential abuse situations where vulnerable kids could be exploited.
Helping Vulnerable Children Through Education
Using songs, coloring books, puppets, games, Superbook characters, and other materials, instructors teach children—in ways kids can understand—how to identify, say no to, and report sexual abuse.
The classes meet over a course of four to five weeks. During that time, children learn vital lessons like identifying untrustworthy people, not keeping secrets, and running from danger. They also have opportunities to speak with psychologists as needed. Parents receive an overview of the training, as well.
As director of the program for her school, Martha gives Yo Digo No high marks, including the special march held at the end. “The march against child abuse … promotes parents’ vigilance and ensures that children remain alert to any instances of harassment or abuse directed toward them.”
Martha is in a unique position to understand and appreciate the program. “As a teacher and mother, I am overjoyed by the positive experience and blessing that Operation Blessing brought to our school,” she said. “I want to express my thanks to each one involved in this wonderful organization. This kind of initiative is a great blessing for our children.” Thank you for helping us protect vulnerable kids in Peru!
