CRS Work in Peru
CRS/Peru supports programs through local partners in civil society and human rights, sustainable rural development, microfinance, and emergency relief. Each program area addresses specific development needs in the Peruvian context; projects currently benefit more than 150,000 people.
- The civil society and human rights program includes initiatives that strengthen civil society and citizen participation, provide oversight of local government, defend human rights, and develop conflict resolution mechanisms. CRS is currently leading a nationwide initiative in conjunction with a coalition of non-governmental organizations and church institutions, which aims to ensure broad citizen participation in the political, administrative and economic arenas. This will have a major impact on the lives of all Peruvian citizens.
- The agriculture program mitigates poverty and achieves social justice in rural areas, while promoting responsible management of the environment.
- Microfinance projects help local organizations develop credit, savings, training, and marketing assistance to poor microentrepreneurs, most of whom are women, in suburban and rural areas.
- Emergency relief efforts respond to the basic needs of the vulnerable and protect their human dignity immediately following natural disasters.
Citizen Participation and Oversight project meeting in Sicuani, Cusco.
Some specific examples of our work include:
Sustainable Development and Peace between Ecuador and Peru
The Frontera: Border Integration for Sustainable Development and Peace between Ecuador and Peru project aims to improve livelihoods through the marketing of agricultural products. Additional objectives include increasing participation and monitoring of local development plans, and improving social/cultural relations between border communities.
PROMESA/PODERES Program for Food Security
The PROMESA/PODERES (Microenterprise Program for Food Security/Program for Regional Development Opportunities to Reduce Social Exclusion) project, implemented in conjunction with Caritas Peru and seven Diocesan Caritas offices, will improve food security by increasing the income of more than 30,000 clients over the life of the five-year project.
