Located in South America, Brazil is a vast country ranked the largest in South America and fifth largest in the world. It borders all other South American countries except Ecuador and Chile and covers more than 47% of the continent's land area. Although regarded by many in the early 21st century as a strongly emerging world economic power, in reality over the last five years, Brazil has witnessed a shrinking economy, rising unemployment, and rising inflation putting increased pressure on family life.
Part of the global Mothers' Union family is the Union of Episcopal Anglican Women of Brazil (UMEAB). Women in Brazil face many challenges in their daily life with high rates of domestic violence, pronounced social class divisions across the country and widespread poverty. Separation and divorce affect many families with many women bringing up children on their own or with support from their mothers. Working with other ecumenical organisations and Christian groups in Brazil, UMEAB aims to actively address these issues and help improve
family life.
Members of UMEAB are reaching out to others and transforming their communities through:
- Practical support for victims of domestic violence
- Health projects
- Working with young people
- Support for immigrants
- Arts and crafts therapy for the elderly
Mothers’ Union continues to engage and build stronger links with UMEAB.
