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A Meaningful Engagement: Vantage Foundation Visits SOS Children's Villages in Portugal

On April 15, 2025, a significant event unfolded as the Vantage Foundation visited SOS Children's Villages in Lisbon, Portugal. This visit aimed to address an often-overlooked yet profound issue: child neglect. The representatives of the foundation were welcomed by Teresa Conceição, the Fundraising Coordinator, and Emerson Marques, the head of Brand and Communication. Together, they discussed the enduring commitment of SOS Children’s Villages, which has been advocating for the welfare of children facing neglect, abandonment, or abuse for over 60 years.

Child neglect, a pressing concern in Portugal, manifests itself at an alarming rate, with a child growing up unsupported every ten minutes. This form of negligence frequently goes unnoticed, allowing children to be trapped in cycles of emotional trauma and developmental challenges, which can persist across generations. SOS Children's Villages Portugal strives to combat this cycle through prevention, protection, and advocacy, ensuring that no child is left behind.

However, neglect is not solely about the absence of care; it represents a chronic erosion of trust that can have devastating effects on children's mental health and development. Many neglected children face emotional disorders, attachment issues, and difficulties in forming healthy relationships as they navigate the world without stable support. If unaddressed, the consequences can entrap families in a continuous struggle, further exacerbating the crisis.

By tackling the root causes of abandonment, SOS Children's Villages fortifies families through education, mental health support, and emergency assistance. They focus on early intervention to mitigate systemic challenges, thereby aiding in the prevention of family separations and reducing the necessity for out-of-home placements.

When family separation becomes unavoidable, the organization ensures that children receive high-quality care in nurturing environments. This includes keeping siblings together, tailoring care to meet individual needs, and offering specialized training for caregivers on trauma-informed practices. To provide long-term solutions, they advocate for stronger legal protections for youth transitioning out of the foster care system, equipping them with essential tools for independent living.

Understanding that collaboration is crucial in eradicating child neglect, the Vantage Foundation believes in partnering with organizations like SOS Children’s Villages. Together with businesses, policymakers, and communities, they aim to amplify the voices of vulnerable children and disrupt the cycle of neglect.

Emerson Marques, emphasizing the weight of childhood neglect, stated, "The issue of child abandonment is profound, invisible, and devastating. The more quiet it is, the more dangerous it becomes. It is essential to share this message to inspire more people to care and engage with the cause. Only then can we ensure that no child grows up without the love, respect, and safety they deserve."

Steven, the Executive Director of the Vantage Foundation, echoed this sentiment by praising the inspiring work of SOS Children's Villages Portugal. He remarked, "Their commitment illustrates the potential we have when we prioritize children's futures and emphasize the importance of collective action. Child neglect is a silent crisis, but together we can bring it to light and effect real change."

By addressing the complex issue of neglect, we can aspire to creating a world where every child grows up surrounded by love, respect, and security. The initiative aligns with the Vantage Foundation's ongoing dedication to empowering vulnerable communities around the world. For more information on SOS Children's Villages Portugal and their initiatives, visit Aldeias SOS.

About the Vantage Foundation

Founded in 2023 at the McLaren Technology Centre in the UK, the Vantage Foundation is an independent charity that collaborates with organizations worldwide, including Grab Indonesia, iREDE Foundation in Nigeria, Teach For Malaysia, and the Claret Institute in Brazil to drive impactful social initiatives.