Posted by : Lizzie on 11/08/2010 at 12:03

Brazil is a land of huge contrasts. As soon as I arrived I could clearly see the stamp of the wealthy on the land, their luxurious flats and tower blocks in the city. A little further out and I stepped into the horrendous poverty of the favelas, where children are exposed to massive drug problems, high levels of teen pregnancy, serious gang warfare and domestic violence.

All these issues are interrelated, building into the self-perpetuating vicious circle which has been Brazil's heritage for so many years. Breaking this cycle needs a combined effort attacking on a number of different fronts to put an end to this once and for all.

Our Hope and Life Centre is a real beacon in the Santo Amaro favela. I met a group of girls who live here in one of the most violent favelas in Brazil, and was so incredibly moved to hear how their lives are being transformed by the centre. They believe that with your help they truly can break through the vicious cycle they live in and grow towards peace.

Nigel (CEO)