CFE is a primary prevention approach. Rather than intervening only with specific families, it aims to strengthen the capacities of the entire community, including local leaders, child protection committees, schools, authorities, and community-based organizations.

Mobilising local strengths

CFE actions may include:

• Establishing and strengthening Community Savings and Loan Associations (ACEC)
• Supporting community-based organizations
• Advocating for children’s rights
• Strengthening local stakeholders and partners
• Setting up community child protection mechanisms

CFE is a driver of sustainable change. It seeks to ensure that communities are able to support families independently by strengthening protection and solidarity systems, even after the programme gradually phases out its direct involvement.

A Complementary Approach

In most programmes, DFE and CFE are implemented simultaneously.

A family may therefore:

• Receive individualised direct support (DFE)
• Participate in a community savings group supported through CFE

By combining these two approaches, SOS Children’s Villages strengthens both families and communities, ensuring that every child can grow up in a safe, protective, and stable environment