Since 2008 protecting and reintegrating women and children from gender-based violence and sexual abuse.
WHO WE ARE
- Founded in 2008, Casa Vida was created to offer a safe and nurturing environment for children who have experienced abuse — a place where their physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs can be gently supported.
- Headquartered in Dili, we welcome and support young women and children from all corners of Timor-Leste.
- More than 700 children and women have found refuge at Casa Vida, receiving both short-term care and long-term guidance tailored to their individual journeys.
- We work hand-in-hand with government agencies and civil society partners to ensure a coordinated and compassionate response to every case.
MISSION
- Provide a safe and nurturing space for children and women who have experienced violence and abuse.
- Support their healing journey by addressing physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs with care and compassion.
- Promote full recovery and well-being, helping each child and every woman regain a sense of safety, trust, and hope.
- Facilitate reintegration into family and community life, with renewed self-confidence and a strong sense of self-worth.
VISION
- To promote the right to life, protection and citizenship as guaranteed by the Constitution of Timor-Leste and the UN’s “Convention on the Rights of the Child”.
Our Projects
The training programs at Casa Vida are designed to support young girls in crisis, helping them grow into healthy, happy, confident, and skilled individuals. Life skills are also taught to prepare them for independent and fulfilling lives.
Casa Vida proudly runs two social enterprises: Kafé Aroma, a welcoming café and restaurant, and Arte Vida, where beautiful handcrafted products are made. Through Arte Vida, our clients also learn the art of crafting, giving them a chance to develop new skills and open doors to greater independence and empowerment.
Both of these social enterprises are designed to empower women by providing them with valuable
skills, dignified work opportunities, and a pathway toward financial independence. While these initiatives—Kafé Aroma and Arte Vida—are not yet able to make the project fully self-sustainable, they help cover small but essential costs not supported by donor funding. These include day-to-day operational needs that ensure our services remain consistent, safe, and welcoming for the survivors we serve.
In addition, Casa Vida works on other fronts, supporting advocacy and prevention efforts around sexual abuse and violence, striving to create a safer community for all.
Arte vida
Aroma restaurant
Together for Change
Supporting People & Partnerships
We collaborate closely and transparently with local communities, government agencies, NGOs, and international partners to create
a strong support network for survivors and their families.
Social
Enterprises
Casa Vida’s social enterprises support life skills and vocational training by offering real-world practice in a safe environment.
Not profit-driven, any income helps cover project costs not funded by partners.
Shelter, Safety and Basic Needs
At Casa Vida, each resident receives personalized care, including safe accommodation, nutritious meals, and emotional support, all tailored to help restore their sense of security and wellbeing.
Prevention Advocacy
Our dedicated social work team partners with community leaders and organizations to develop awareness campaigns aimed at preventing child violence and promoting human rights throughout Timor-Leste. They also provide continuous support to clients
Education
and training
Casa Vida supports children and young people from crisis situations by facilitating school attendance
and providing life skills and vocational training to help them build a brighter future.
Reintegration Program
Reintegration is a key part of our work. We ensure a safe and supportive transition back to the community, with ongoing guidance from our Social Service team and partners, who maintain contact to monitor progress and provide assistance as needed.