Today, as that conflict ebbs and the country shows the first signs of recovery, many thousands of children remain at risk. In Ayacucho province alone, there were over 18,000 deaths from the conflict and 200,000 persons were forced from their homes. Nationwide, over 600,000 residents of rural areas were displaced. Their physical and social dislocation has added to the problems of poverty, malnutrition and low educational levels already endured. The unemployment rate in Ayacucho remains extremely high compared to the rest of Peru.
Many families find themselves simply incapable of supporting their children.
In addition to the lingering social dislocation from the fading civil conflict, Peru is a coca leaf producing nation and thus a source of cocaine. The availability of drugs and the violence surrounding drug trafficking further increases the risk faced by the country's youth. The Salesian Missions is providing shelter, food, and clothing as well as education and training to orphans and abandoned boys in Ayacucho through a separate initiative. Through this project, a comprehensive mix of services are provided vulnerable children with the goal of reintegrating them into society. Aspects include skills training, formal and vocational education, nutritional and health guidance, socio-cultural counseling, and job placement.