Around the world, more than 153 million children are classified as orphans, and millions more live in vulnerable situations without consistent care. For many, orphanages provide food, shelter, and safety. These essentials save lives—but they don’t solve the deeper problem.
Without access to education and skill development, children leaving orphanages often face limited futures. Studies show that young people without secondary education are more than twice as likely to remain in poverty as adults. Without training, they struggle to find stable jobs, which leaves them vulnerable to exploitation and unable to break cycles of hardship.
This is why education matters. Vocational programs, apprenticeships, and academic support give children the tools to support themselves as adults. They learn practical skills that can be turned into jobs—carpentry, computer literacy, hospitality, mechanics, or nursing. They gain confidence, independence, and a vision for their future.
At 100 Orphanages, we emphasize partnering with organizations that go beyond providing food and shelter. We sponsor orphanages that offer educational opportunities and vocational training, because these programs create lasting change. A safe bed can protect a child tonight, but education can carry them forward for a lifetime.