The Sol y Luna Association plays an important role in the education of some of the poorest children of Peru’s Sacred Valley, supporting 200 children from 20 different communities. Driven by the passion of Petit Miribel, the founder, the school offers a well-rounded education which follows the national curriculum. Alongside classes in English and Quecha they also run a ‘hotel school programme’ which offers practical job-related skills.
In addition to the school, the Sol y Luna Home provides a safe haven for orphans and children at risk; a place where they can develop emotionally, feel loved and have a sense of belonging.
The funding for the school and home comes entirely from the Sol y Luna hotel, a Relais & Chateau property. As you can imagine, Covid19 has had a devastating effect on the entire operation. Local lockdowns prevent the children from attending school and, with the hotel closed, there is no money available to facilitate distance learning.
The Tribes Foundation has been able to channel funding to the school, raised through donations from our generous travellers. We have provided funding for Sol y Luna to purchase 14 e-tablets, 7 web cams and 10 internet services so that the children can continue their education in their homes and participate in distance learning.
This school is hugely important. It has taken years to build up and is so important to the community and to the children, providing them with opportunities that they would otherwise not have had. The purchase of the above equipment will allow 14 students, who are currently unable to join the virtual classes, to remain connected to their Sol y Luna family.
This is more than just a school. Alongside education, they also provide transportation, snacks, lunches, creative workshops, psychological support, school for parents, integration trips, and intensive English and Quechua classes. Whilst some things may be on hold due to Covid19, they are doing their utmost to ensure the children’s education continues uninterrupted.
To find out more about the Sol y Luna Association and the work they do click here.