Colombia

Colombia is the fourth largest country in South America and occupies a space roughly equivalent to France, Spain and Portugal combined. It is the only country in South America with access to both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean.

Although Colombia's work base is becoming more industrial, coffee is still one of the country's most important exports. The world-famous Colombian coffee is produced in the western mountains, about 3,500 feet above sea level.

Education is one key problem area in Colombia. Many children do not continue beyond the third grade at school because they often have to work to help support the family income. Girls are often kept at home to care for the younger family members while the parents work.

Plan's work

Plan works in the poorest parts of Colombia where child survival statistics are often far below the national averages. Plan's programs are centred around health, education and habitat, with common projects including school construction and repair, vaccination campaigns, preventative health training for mothers and increasing access to clean water.