Favelas facts for kids
A favela is the name for a type of neighborhood in Brazil. These areas are often built on the edges of big cities. People who live in favelas are usually those with less money. They often build their own homes using materials like wood, plastic, and even recycled items. Friends and family often help each other build these houses.
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What is a Favela?
Favelas are sometimes called "shanty towns." This means they are neighborhoods where homes are built quickly and often without official plans. They are different from regular city neighborhoods because they don't always have the same services. These can include things like clean water, proper sewers, or paved roads.
Where are Favelas Found?
Most favelas are found in urban areas, especially on the outskirts of large cities. While favelas exist all over Brazil, many of the most well-known ones are in Rio de Janeiro. They often grow on hillsides or in other areas that were not developed by the city.
Life in a Favela
Life in a favela can be challenging but also full of community spirit. People often work together to improve their neighborhoods. They might create their own systems for electricity or water. Over time, some favelas have grown very large and have many shops, schools, and even health clinics.
Building Homes
People in favelas often build their own houses. They use whatever materials they can find. This can include bricks, wood, metal sheets, and even recycled glass or plastic. Building a home is often a community effort, with neighbors helping each other out.
Community and Challenges
Favelas are known for their strong communities. People often know their neighbors well and help each other. However, favelas can also face difficulties. Because they are not always officially recognized, they might not get all the same services as other parts of the city. This can lead to challenges with things like waste collection or public safety.
Images for kids
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Rio's Santa Teresa neighborhood features favelas (right) contrasted with more affluent houses (left). The Christ the Redeemer, shrouded in clouds, is in the left background.
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Former U.S. president Barack Obama visiting Rio's Cidade de Deus (City of God) favela. This favela started out as public housing built on marshy flatlands in the city's western suburbs.
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The lights of Vidigal favela in Rio de Janeiro as seen from Ipanema and Leblon beaches. The cone spire to the far right is part of the Morro Dois Irmãos.
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Bedroom on Favela of São Paulo
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Pope Francis visits a favela in Brazil during the World Youth Day 2013.
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Aerial tramway of the Complexo do Alemão, Rio de Janeiro. Used by favela commuters to the closer urban train station and tourist alike.
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Panoramic view of Rio's Rocinha favela. Visible in the distance is the South Atlantic Ocean. The high-rise buildings near the coast are condominiums in São Conrado
Related pages
See also
In Spanish: Favela para niños
