Half of the world's poorest people are children and there are more babies born into poverty than ever before. Despite major advances in medicine, science and technology, one out of four babies is born into extreme poverty and adverse conditions.

The Marsh Children's Home understands that poverty is a complex problem, and has more than 25 years of experience in identifying and helping abused, beaten and abandoned children using developing models of intervention and alleviating child poverty, vulnerability and deprivation. Mamá Jovita, our founder and director, has her own personal philosophy, which is simply "LOVE and CARE" - planting the seeds of self-sufficiency.

The Marsh Children's Home's integrated development model is made up of interventions and education in four primary sectors.

• Early Childhood Development - With love and care, Mamá Jovita and the staff at the Marsh Children's Home provide a safe and nurturing environment, teaching the children responsibility and discipline in a place they can call their home.

• Health & Sanitation - The Marsh Children's Home teaches the children how to care for themselves at an early age, stressing the importance of a healthy lifestyle, exercise, personal hygiene and sanitary living conditions.

• Education - We realize the importance of education in helping to end the cycle of poverty. All of our children are required to go to school and complete their studies before playtime or chores. In 2007, we opened a state-of-the-art computer center and theater, where the children can learn vital computer skills to help them compete in the world after graduation. Additionally, our theater boasts a large collection of education DVD's, allowing the children to learn about the world around them in an entertaining setting.

• Nutrition - With the assistance of your donations and sponsorship funds, we are able to provide the children with healthy and balanced meals. We teach the children the importance of eating well and taking vitamins daily to maintain a healthy body and a happy mind.