HERO: A UNA-USA Campaign, in partnership with The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is an awareness building and fundraising initiative dedicated to providing comprehensive, school-based support to orphans and vulnerable children living in HIV/AIDS-affected communities in Africa.
Education is key to a child's future, but for orphans and vulnerable children, schools play a role far greater than academic learning. They serve as community resources where children can receive basic care and services - such as food programs, clean water, counseling and referral to other local and government services.
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"Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world"
- Nelson Mandela
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Children are routinely subject to misfortune beyond the loss of parents. They are at higher risk of being malnourished, sexually and physically abused, stigmatized and forced to work to support themselves and remaining family members. HERO has identified staying in school as the first line of defense against these ills. By enrolling in school, children whose welfare might otherwise be overlooked can gain access to services provided by the community and government.
HERO is working in schools within Ethiopia, Namibia, South Africa and Zambia to reduce the negative impact of poverty and HIV/AIDS on children.
Along with our in-country partners, HERO strives to strengthen the schools' response to their most vulnerable learners and provide a comprehensive solution. Each school is provided with a comprehensive "HERO Package" of support that is implemented by local partners at schools serving children from pre-school through 12th grade.
These packages are divided into two strategic developmental stages:
STAGE 1 FOR HERO SCHOOLS INCLUDES:
Feeding Schemes
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Water & Sanitation
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Infrastructure
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Crisis Support
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STAGE 2 FOR HERO SCHOOLS INCLUDES:
Capacity Building
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Psycho-Social Support
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School Resources
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Health
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