Last week, on Friday, April 12, was a special day for our Street Doctors team in La Paz: "Dia de la Niña y del Niño" - the day of girls and boys (Children's Day) was celebrated. Instead of the usual medical examinations, small gifts were distributed to the many poor children.

The day was first established by the Organization of American States (OAS) and UNICEF on April 12, 1952, when the Declaration of Universal Principles for Children was drafted. It was decided that each country should set aside a day to celebrate its children. It is intended to strengthen the rights and dignity of the young population. In 1955, during the presidency of Víctor Paz Estenssoro, the Bolivian government declared April 12 "Children's Day". In 2013, it was abolished and instead introduced as the Day of Girls and Boys (El Dia de la Niña y del Niño). This small change was initiated to do justice to gender equality in the country.

The day was therefore dedicated to the next generation last week: schools remained closed, many places offered attractions for children and there was plenty of sweets. Our Street Doctors were on the road with the same mission. Their aim was to reach these children in particular, who would otherwise not have been able to enjoy this great festival due to their family situation. For example, they visited the poor districts of Lustracalzado, Mulicine and Qaruro. They were met with incredible gratitude. The pictures they shared with us reflect the joy in the eyes of the children and parents - we are delighted with all the recipients and are once again touched by the boundless commitment of our team. Of course, we also want to share this visible happiness with you and thank every donor and supporter in this context.

In Germany, by the way, Children's Day is celebrated - with a great deal of attention - on June 1.