Urban95 Programme Transforms Cities for Children and Families
The Van Leer Foundation's Urban95 Programme, active for a decade, is transforming cities worldwide to better support young children and families. Despite its importance, caregiving work often goes unnoticed in urban planning.
The programme has partnered with cities like Amsterdam, Barcelona, Bogotá, Cairo, Mumbai, and New York. Its core vision is to create supportive environments for caregivers, tackling the isolation and mental health challenges that arise from urbanisation.
One key strategy is investing in 'villages of care'. These are designed to support parents and caregivers, fostering a sense of community and reducing feelings of disconnection. With over 1 billion children expected to grow up in cities, addressing their wellbeing is a pressing concern.
The Urban95 Programme, through its 'villages of care' initiative, is addressing the often overlooked aspect of caregiving in urban planning. By supporting families and caregivers, it aims to make cities healthier, safer, and more vibrant for the next generation.