Despite the recent gains in poverty reduction in Armenia, one third of the country’s population remains in poverty. USAID’s social protection activities work closely with the Armenian Government and civil society to deliver vital social services to vulnerable populations, build sustainable models of social services delivery, and strengthen the capacity of the government to implement its broad social reform agenda.
USAID places a special emphasis on promoting national child welfare reforms to ensure social inclusion and equal access to services and opportunities for especially vulnerable children. USAID also maximizes the use of government-to-government agreements and supports local civil society organizations to implement activities in this sector and build local sustainability.
CURRENT PROGRAM
SOCIAL INCLUSION
Strengthening of Inclusive Education System
Partner: Ministry of Education and Science | Active: April 2016-April 2021
USAID works directly with the Ministry to strengthen Armenia’s inclusive education system in order to implement national child welfare reforms. Through small-scale adjustments in selected schools and pedagogical-psychological centers, the project ensures that learning environments are physically adapted to be inclusive of children with disabilities and/or special educational needs.
Community Level Access to Social Services (CLASS)
Partner: World Vision Armenia | Active: September 2017-September 2020
Promotes the establishment of community-based social services in Armenia through the introduction of a community-based social worker position within local government and by enabling communities to identify, prevent, and address their social issues.
Leading for Independent Living
Partner: Mobility International USA | Active: September 2019-September 2022
Promotes independent living and the inclusion of persons with disabilities by facilitating accessible, affordable and sustainable community-based support and services in Lori and Shirak marzes.