In Panama , more than 2,000 children and adolescents currently live in state-run shelters (MIDES–UNICEF, 2024). Many of them were placed there after enduring abandonment, abuse, or family violence. 

Only 1 in 4 manages to access higher education, and 64% of young women in vulnerable conditions live in poverty or social exclusion (UNDP, 2023).

Without support, most fall into informal jobs, abusive relationships, or unplanned pregnancies. Indigenous and Afro-descendant girls are at  twice the risk  of school dropout and unemployment.