COVID-19 and Compassion’s Work in Ecuador

An in-depth look at the coronavirus pandemic in Ecuador

Last Updated: 07/27/2021

As of July 18, Ecuador is reporting an average of 1,122 cases of COVID per day, a decrease from peak numbers reported in early May. Ecuador has fully vaccinated nearly 24% of its population of 16.9 million people, up from 8% in June. The government has instituted new restrictions in some areas due to the presence of the new Delta strain of COVID-19. Hospitals continue to struggle as they deal with the number of cases. With many businesses still closed, increased poverty and unemployment remain a pressing concern.

Nearly all Compassion centers are closed to on-site activities, though a few are able to welcome small groups of children and youths. Church staff members continue to provide emotional and spiritual support by making regular phone calls to families, and a number of centers are conducting their ministry through home visits. Center workers have been able to deliver almost 907,000 food packs and over 349,000 hygiene kits and have provided medical support to almost 29,000 individuals since the pandemic began.

A Message From National Staff

How Is Compassion Currently Operating in Ecuador?

Below, you will find the latest information on how Compassion is currently operating in Ecuador, including status updates on center openings, letter delivery and gift delivery. This is the most current information we have, though it can change quickly. Please know that all children and their families are being checked in on regularly by staff, either in person or by phone, even if the Compassion center is not open for programming.

Are Compassion Centers Open?

Nearly all centers in Ecuador are closed in order to abide by local guidelines. A small number can hold meetings with small groups of beneficiaries. Depending on the region, staff members are either making home visits to families and children or connecting through phone and video calls. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute almost 907,000 food packs and over 349,000 hygiene kits to children and their families!

Are Children Receiving Letters?

Are Gifts Being Delivered?

Gifts continue to be distributed in Ecuador, although they are currently delayed. In some communities, staff members have needed to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognizing that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

Story From the Field

Just before the COVID-19 pandemic caused strict lockdown measures in Ecuador, 8-year-old Cristian traveled with his father, Carlos, to visit family. Before they could return home, Cristian and Carlos were both infected with COVID-19 and were taken to separate hospitals. When Carlos realized his son was gone, he called his wife, and the panicked parents contacted the staff at the Compassion center to see if they could help find their boy.

The church quickly tracked down Cristian, paid for food and medicine for Cristian and Carlos, and helped reunite the family. Both father and son have recovered physically, as well as from the trauma of being separated.

“I am happy to be with my mom and dad again. I was afraid, but I know that Jesus is with me always,” says Cristian.

How can I pray for Ecuador?

Please pray for the many Ecuadorians who have lost their jobs during the pandemic and who still struggle to find work. For more prayer resources, visit Compassion’s COVID-19 prayer page for prayer guides and a virtual prayer wall.

How Can I Help?

Sponsor a Child in Ecuador

Give to Compassion's Critical Program Needs Fund

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