Thank you!
I wanted to start my update by saying a huge thank you. Since the release of our special report in July, shedding light on how the climate crisis is making life even harder for street children, £42,164 has been donated by our wonderful supporters.
Sadly we are now seeing this crisis unfold in real-time. You may have seen our recent update where we shared about the impact that recent flooding in Delhi has been having on families where children in Toybox supported projects live and work.
Thank you so much for your donations and prayers at this time. Together we can ensure that street children are not left to face the climate crisis alone.
Pictured above: A peer leader at a Toybox supported project in Kathmandhu leads a session on climate change.
Protecting street children in El Salvador
You may have also seen our update last month, where we shared the news that in June 2025, El Salvador’s Legislative Assembly had introduced a new law which requires organisations receiving international funding to register as ‘foreign agents’ with the Ministry of Interior.
I am pleased to share that we have just received news from our partner in El Salvador that they have completed the registration process and been granted exemption from tax for one year. This is a positive step that ensures Viva can continue their excellent work in rights, education and identity with children and families in street situations.
Pictured above: A young girl in San Salvador displays her artwork created during a project activity session celebrating children who had recently received their birth certificates.
standing up for children’s rights and dignity
This month, we explore the importance of sharing children's stories truthfully and respectfully. Thanks to you, children and young people at our projects are finding the courage and space to tell their stories in their own words - helping others understand the realities they face and the courage and strength they show. It's because of your compassion and belief in children’s potential that stories like Mathew’s and Abi’s can be told - and heard.
With your continued support, we can reach even more children - providing a listening ear, safety and the chance to imagine a brighter future. Whether children choose to share their story or simply take their first steps toward stability, your kindness helps make that journey possible.
Pictured above: Project participant to Abi, from Bolivia.
child wellbeing survey
Over the summer, seven Toybox partners undertook a wellbeing survey with 194 children aged 8-12 years old across Latin America, Africa and Asia. This was the second time we had undertaken the survey - which was piloted last year - and the results were both encouraging and insightful. A few of the key findings were:
•77% children reported that their wellbeing has got better or a lot better in the past year.
•71% of children feel healthy most of the time, 68% can usually see a doctor or a nurse when they are unwell and 74% have access to medication.
•80% children either agreed or completely agreed that they have hope for their future
Keep an eye out for further updates; we will be sharing more on the findings and reflections from this survey in the coming months.
Pictured above: Children unwind after a child rights session in Nairobi, Kenya, led by Toybox partner PKL. Learning about their rights was one of the key factors children cited for improved wellbeing—reflected in the 77% who said their wellbeing had got better or a lot better in the past year.
A gift that changes lives
Finally, we know Christmas may still feel far away, but we've already begun receiving enquiries about our festive gifts collection. So, we wanted to share it with you early - giving you plenty of time to plan something truly meaningful. This special collection features ten gifts - from hot meals to warm clothing - that not only meet the urgent needs of street children but also build trust and open the door to long-term support.
