Breakfast Club, YWCA of Barbados

Missing breakfast can affect a child’s ability to learn and fully participate in school and cause health problems through poor nutrition.

Research in Barbados showed that children come to school without breakfast because their parents lack either money or time.

The YWCA of Barbados runs a breakfast club for over 700 school children in Barbados, ensuring they start the day with a nutritious meal and can participate fully in school. Operating since January 2007, the breakfasts include pancakes, eggs, bacon, fruit and fruit juice and either hot or cold cereal, a hot beverage and/or a milk shake.


Vocational training, YWCA of Guyana

Changing lives with vocational training for over 60 years

The YWCA of Guyana offers vocational skills training for girls and young women (aged 14 - 18) that have dropped out of the traditional education system.

The two year program provides a pathway out of unemployment and poverty, providing an opportunity for participants to learn skills and become financially independent. Over 70 students participate each year, including participants who are HIV positive.

 The training includes design, entry-level administration, beautician skills, plumbing, dancing and life skills with sexual and reproductive health education and physical education.

 As well as reducing poverty by providing girls with vital skills to earn a living, the YWCA of Guyana's work has also helped to put education for women and girls back on the government agenda.