The entire project takes place in Districto 1 of the city of El Alto, Bolivia, one of the most destitute districts in a metropolitan area characterised by the general poverty of its population.
The city has a population of 800,000, of which 77% are under age 24 and 43% under 17. Bolivia’s “youngest” city is also the city where the largest number of minor children live on the street. Their living conditions are dramatic, particularly for the girls.
Sexually abused, school drop-outs, drug-addicted, many girls prostitute themselves, and some have babies at a very early age. These girls are excluded from society, deprived of all rights, and have no possibility to get out of the situation on their own.

The foundation's support

At its 9 June 2010 meeting, the Selection Committee decided to support the development of the "Casa Minka" with a €20.000 grant.

Expected results

- 80% girls and female teenagers involved in the project will be reintegrated into a productive social and/or family environment other than the streets;
- 70% female street children and teenagers will integrate or reintegrate the formal educational system;
- 70% teenage girls receiving qualifications in vocational education centres will be integrated as employees on the labour market;
- 20% teenage girls with qualifications will start a micro-business depending on the demand of the market;
- 40% increase in the number of adult men and women in El Alto who will be aware of the plight of female street children and teenagers, and implement solutions.