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Cecria -- Reference Center for studies and actions in favor of children and adolescents
Cecria integrates research, training, communication, and direct services, all directed toward improving the lives of street boys and girls. It is a resource and network for programs across the country.
- Training. Often, members of the Conselhos Tutelares, police who work with kids, and even social workers and street educators are poorly trained to deal with the complications of children’s psychology. Cecria runs training programs for all of these groups, teaching not only how to help children, but also about the resources that are available for them. They also provide advice for large organizations who wish to improve their services.
- Research. Almost a dozen University professors work on Cecria’s staff; Cecria supports and coordinates their individual research and then integrates it so it can be better communicated to the rest of Brasil.
- Communications. In addition to hosting many seminars on street children, Cecria has created one of the most valuable internet databases in Latin America. The searchable site (www.cecria.org.br) includes information on almost every organization working with children in Brasil, demographics and general information, legal references, and much more.
- Direct services. Recently, Cecria joined with the National Movement for Street Boys and Girls (MNMMR-DF) to address issues of sexual violence against street girls. This model program uses the organizing techniques of the Movement, but then moves into more psychological issues. Girls work in groups to discuss their own experiences of rape (support), but then work to turn this experience into political power. They produce videos, lobby the government, pressure the police, and encourage schools and community centers to put sexual violence on their curricula.
Ave W/3 Note, Quadra 506, Bloco C
Mezzanino, Lojas 21-25
CEP 70740-503
Brasilia, DF
tel/fax 61 274 6632 or 340 8708
Contacts: Maria Lucia Leal, Karena, or Isabel, cecria@brnet.com.br
www.cecria.org.br
understanding social services for street kids in Latin America
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