131 recorded 10,481 contacts in 2025; information, violence among top concerns

ORANJESTAD – The 131 support service recorded 10,481 contacts during 2025 through phone calls, chat, email, its website, workshops and outreach programs. The anonymous and confidential service primarily supports children and young people aged 8 to 24 in Aruba and is also accessible to young people in Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba.

The most common reason for contacting 131 was information, accounting for 6,380 contacts. This was followed by violence with 1,034 contacts, home situations with 995, mental health with 864 and drugs with 484.

Of all contacts, 4,483 involved males, 4,630 females, while gender was not identified in 1,368 cases. June was the busiest month, with 2,786 contacts, followed by September with 2,369.

During 2025, 131 continued investing in the training of its mentor team, including programs focused on mental health, emotional responsiveness and violence. The organization also expanded preventive activities in schools and the community through initiatives such as “Ken mi ta?”, “Best Dad Ever”, and projects with UNICEF Netherlands related to children’s rights and well-being.

Founded in 1999, 131 serves not only as a helpline but also as a knowledge center in the field of youth care and development. It works with around 45 partner organizations across Aruba and the other islands to support the continuity and quality of its services.