Centro Cultural Aldeia do Monte
The Centre is based in the town of Olinda and works to improve the quality of life for all children, regardless of ethnicity, social background or disability. This is achieved through a range of cultural and artistic activities, including capoeira and music, as well as supporting school work.
Monte is a district in the historic city of Olinda, famous for its colonial architecture and annual carnival. There is high unemployment, and those who are working have low incomes, often at minimum wage. Families tend to be large, but live in small homes, with only 2 or 3 rooms.
Issues affecting the rapidly expanding favela in Olinda are dominated by the lack of access to medical care, sanitation and schooling. This leads to many children becoming involved in drugs, crime, prostitution and robbery. This project aims to give the children new options and inspire hope for their futures.
| Region: |
Pernambuco, North-East Brazil |
| Type of Work: |
Cultural and artistic activities; community development; training |
| No of children: |
80 |
| Other beneficiaries: |
Wider community, approx. 200 |
| Age range: |
5-18 years (education); 18-21 years (income generation), boys and girls |
| Founded: |
2003 |
“I feel really at home here. The project is really helping street kids to learn to read.” Rosana, 15 years old
“The project is like a school. The children have classes instead of hanging about on the streets. Also, they learn to play instruments and to dance and paint.” Monique, 11 years old
“The project is very important for the community and all the children that attend. It helps us to understand Brazilian culture and show it to the rest of the world.” Andrei, 12 years old |
Complementary education
Between 2004-2006, ABC funded core costs of the organisation so that a range of activities could take place:
- Arts – percussion, painting, dance with children also participating in the famous Olinda Carnival
- Sport – football and capoeira
- Education – reinforcement of school work; help with homework
- Counselling and personal support
Preparing children for better futures
- ABC funded the Bakery project, training 18-21 year olds and supplying fresh bread to the community
- Jewellery-making workshops
- Occasional classes in horticulture, traditional cookery and woodwork (producing musical instruments)
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