Childhope Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Childhope Philippines) is a not-for-profit, non-government organization working to promote the welfare of street children in the Philippines. It works toward upholding and protecting children’s rights, particularly those children in street situations (CISS).
Childhope Philippines traces its history back to when Childhope International was founded in 1986 by individuals from children’s agencies who saw the need to address the plight of children in need of special protection, specifically on behalf of street children. In 1989, Childhope International established a regional office for Asia, with its headquarters in Manila, after the First Regional Conference of Street Children in Asia was held. The Manila office facilitated networking and collaboration among the different agencies working for street children in the Asian region.
In 1989, Childhope International ceased its operations. Amidst the growing problem of street children in Asia, Childhope (Asia) continued its operations—providing direct social welfare services to the children of Metro Manila through an outreach, protection and education on the streets program, and technical assistance to other Asian nations who want to address the problem in their country.
In 1995, Childhope (Asia) officially became Childhope Asia Philippines, Inc. as registered under the Securities and Exchange Commission. Through the years, its banner program evolved into what is now The Street Education and Protection (STEP) Program—a holistic program providing access to alternative education, counseling and basic social welfare, primary health care and skills development opportunities for street children. In 2013, Childhope Asia Philippines, Inc. changed its name to Childhope Philippines
Foundation, Inc. to show its focus on streamlining programs and services for Filipino street children. By far, it has the widest reach, covering a total of 14 areas in the cities of Manila, Paranaque, Pasay and Caloocan—areas where groups of street children are highly visible.
