Our story

In 1994, a group of determined families started a project to help the neediest children. After studying the country's social situation, they chose to work in La Comuna, a community with material deprivation and a lack of values. Today, Friends of Ninos de Maria Foundation is a U.S. registered non-profit organization (501 c3) that acts as the international outreach office for work done with children in Ecuador.
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Beyond traditional education

Our education is more than just books: it is healing, constructive and lasting. Every child who seeks love and support at home finds a trusted friend in us. We are a safe place where love and emotional support are as important as learning in the classroom. We create strong bonds that go beyond the classroom, working closely with families and offering the constant communication and support that are the foundation of our educational community.

salón de clases fundación niños de maria

In our reality, many children could face difficulties such as joining gangs or even more complicated situations without our help. At Niños de María, we provide them with more than just an education: we offer them a family and a community that supports them every step of the way to a brighter future.