Lilongwe SOS Social Centre

The SOS Social Centre, Lilongwe opened in 2002 to support orphaned and vulnerable children and their families in seven local communities, with a population of about 14,000. This has been extended to another three villages, increasing the population to over 17,500. The SOS Social Centre provides a range of support that directly benefit orphaned and vulnerable children and their families in the local communities. For example, children are supported to help them meet their education needs at secondary school or vocational training centres. The home-based care programme has resulted in a reduction in the death-rate from HIV/AIDS related illness. Nearly 600 families were given seed and fertilizer to help increase their own food production. The SOS Social Centre worked with WaterAid to develop a clean water and sanitation project in the community. Working with the SOS Medical Centre, the SOS Social Centre has developed an outreach programme to reduce the distances that people have to travel to receive medical attention. As part of this, working with Motorola, SOS Children renovated three old houses to create a Community Resource Centre and teachers' accommodation. The SOS Social Centre also works with young people to increase awareness of HIV/AIDS.