49 million people in 49 countries are on the brink of famine, and more than 30 million children are acutely malnourished across the 15 worst-affected countries. 1 in 3 people globally do not have access to safe drinking water. Entire classrooms are empty because students are too hungry to go to school. When hunger strikes, girls eat last and least. They are also more likely to have to quit school to find and earn food and walk far distances to fetch water for their families, putting them at greater risk of gender based violence. School helps girls stay safe and unlocks opportunities, but, for many girls, hunger takes school out of the equation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has put over 11 million girls at risk of not returning to school, threatening decades of progress toward girls’ education and gender equality. Plan International Canada is working with communities across the globe to educate leaders on the importance of girls’ education, so that girls can speak up, learn about their rights and amplify their voices.
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Who is supported by Plan International Canada’s work?
As a member of a global organization dedicated to advancing children’s rights and equality for girls, Plan International Canada works with communities to help reach children with life-saving support against disease and hunger and improve access to education for children worldwide. A fundamental component of this work is realizing the inequality that consequently violates girls’ rights and working with all genders to end injustices that disproportionately harm girls like gender-based violence, limited or no educational opportunities, child marriage and early pregnancy.
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How does Plan International choose where to work?
In choosing where Plan International works, we carefully assess the potential to create lasting, positive change. We analyze poverty statistics and a wide range of human development indicators, such as literacy or infant mortality. We work with communities who have invited us to collaborate with them – an important prerequisite for work to be successful and sustained. Decisions on how to use the funds are based on strategic plans prepared by in-country program staff in consultation with children, communities, local governments and partner organizations.
Learn more about How we work.
Can I leave a gift in my will to my sponsored child?
No, it is not possible for you to leave a gift in your will to your sponsored child. You can, however, leave a gift in your will for Plan International's Child Sponsorship programming.
Since a legacy gift is realized well into the future, and because needs and programs shift over time, your bequest will have the maximum impact for children if Plan International Canada has the flexibility to direct your gift to where the need is greatest at the time. This will allow your gift to support generations of children far into the future. To ensure that Plan International can honour your wishes and distribute your gifts as you intend, the wording of your will is important. To discuss the wording of your will, please don't hesitate to contact Michelle Bernard at (437) 828-8974 or email mbernard@plancanada.ca.
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