How Compassion Became a Life’s Calling
The idea for the children’s home was born in 1996, when Venezuelan-Swiss educator Erika Spillmann, during her training as a preschool teacher, came face to face with the suffering of countless children living in the slums of Venezuela. Many of them were growing up in extreme poverty – surrounded by drugs, prostitution, crime, violence, and neglect, with no hope for the future.
Today, Hogar Bambi cares for up to 120 children between the ages of 0 and 18 in five residential homes in the San Bernardino district of Caracas – some for a short time, others on a long-term basis. Divided into small family-style groups and cared for by trained professionals, the often deeply traumatized children find a safe and loving environment that offers them not only protection, but also the chance for a better future. Here, they can grow, play, learn, laugh – and simply be children.
Live. Learn. Grow together.
This is our guiding principle. Because at Hogar Bambi, caring for children means much more than just providing a roof over their heads. Our work follows a clear and thoughtful educational approach:
Our children’s home offers a safe and nurturing environment where children can grow emotionally and socially. We place special emphasis on three key areas: health, nutrition, and education – all of which are often severely lacking in their families of origin.
The children receive regular medical check-ups and treatment. Their meals are balanced and varied. And from the appropriate age, every child attends kindergarten or school.
“Three siblings, trembling during their first medical check-up after arriving at our home, told the doctor they were beaten by their parents whenever they asked for food. Today, they receive three meals a day and loving care.” – Erika Spillmann
“Three siblings, trembling during their first medical check-up after arriving at our home, told the doctor they were beaten by their parents whenever they asked for food. Today, they receive three meals a day and loving care.” – Erika Spillmann
Authorities, Parents, and Relatives – Active Communication for the Best Possible Support
Together with the authorities, we regularly assess where the children stand in their development and whether a return to their families is realistic in the future. This requires comprehensive and persistent interaction with the families and closest relatives to create a sustainable and protective family environment – a fundamental prerequisite for successful reintegration.
What makes Hogar Bambi stand out:
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