When traveling or working in developing countries, many are shocked by the situation of children living and working on the streets.

Giving money or buying goods directly from children is usually the only response that comes to mind. But giving money to the children will maintain the children on the streets, working and begging and it also reinforces their vulnerability to all forms of abuse, including sexual abuse.

Buying ChildSafe Certified Products offers an effective alternative to giving money directly to children. Two types of ChildSafe Certified Products exist: They are made by parents so children can go to school, or they are made by youth in training so they can find sustainable, rewarding employment. All ChildSafe Certified Products help to provide a future away from the streets for children and youth and they prohibit the involvement of child labor.

Originally, ChildSafe Certified Products were only made in Friends-International projects. The certification is now also available for products from other organizations after their standards have been assessed carefully.