The Challenge
Panama has extremes of wealth and poverty. The wealthiest 20 percent of Panamanians control more than 50 percent of the country’s wealth, while the poorest 40 percent only control 12 percent. The wealthiest Panamanians live a lifestyle that is similar to that of many Americans—they have access to consumer goods such as cars, televisions, cellular phones, and so forth. However, the majority of the nation’s people live in poverty. Regulations on the minimum wage, social security provisions, and working conditions are rarely enforced by the government which means that many workers are unable to earn even the minimum wage.
The Solution
Bridges of Hope is focused on developing long-term partnerships with non-profits and other institutions that share a vision of addressing the real needs of real people from a holistic perspective. Bridges of Hope has built partnerships with many of these local organizations, in Panama, to work towards the fight against generational poverty. Our philosophy is to come along side and assist local organizations to make a long-term difference in people’s lives.
Fast Facts On Panama…
US dollar
Panama was the first Latin American country to adopt the U.S. currency as its own.
The Panama Canal
U.S. troops controlled the Panama Canal until 1999, when Panama assumed full control.
Inequality
Inequality in Panama is astonishing. It ranks as one of the most unequal countries in the world, along with Brazil and South Africa.
- CHILDREN THAT ARE VICTIMS OF MALNUTRITION 12%
- PEOPLE LIVING BELOW POVERTY LINE 18%
- PEOPLE LIVING IN EXTREME POVERTY 10.2%
- PEOPLE LIVING IN EXTREME POVERTY IN RURAL AREAS 27%
NUMBER OF RURAL POOR (2014)
BRIDGE THE HOPE TO PANAMA
Bridges of Hope International is actively engaged in building bridges from the United States to Panama. Partner with us and join the battle against poverty. Your involvement and influence will have a significant impact. “Americans are blessed with great plenty; we are a generous people and we have a moral obligation to assist those who are suffering from poverty, disease, war and famine.” A. Schiff
Sign up for the Panama Impact Trip today!
PANAMA HOSTING HOTEL
