Nicaragua, one of the poorest countries in the western hemisphere, is in recovery from a long history of oppressive dictatorships, civil war and natural disasters. You can sponsor a child in Nicaragua here

Peru has experienced a variety of military and public governments since gaining independence from their Spanish colonisers in the mid-nineteenth century. You can sponsor a child in Peru here

Bolivia has a very troubled history, which until 1982, was characterised by many coups and counter-coups. The controversial policies of President Evo Morales, elected with an almost unprecedented majority of votes, have exacerbated tensions between different ethnic groups. He faces massive challenges with regard to poverty, civil unrest and illegal drug production and exportation.

Strong economic growth and the recent decrease in numbers of people contracting HIV point strongly toward its development as a nation. However, with 22% of its 176.3 million strong population still living below the poverty line, welfare is still a massive issue in Brazil. You can sponsor a child in Brazil here