The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has approved a loan to support a , Rio de Janeiro, Brazil program to integrate into society 40,000 young people who live in favelas cleared of drug-trafficking gangs.

The goal over four years is to improve the living standards of 15-29-year-old residents of the “pacified communities,” where drug traffickers have been replaced by community police known as Police Pacification Units.

The program will make available and accessible schools, healthcare, culture, sports, leisure, and training to prepare participants to enter the workforce. The state government will contribute $24.5 million, raising total funding to $84.5 million.

The program aims to motivate young people so they not only become involved and take advantage of services and activities but continue to participate to receive the maximum benefit. Among other achievements, the program is expected to reduce early pregnancy, truancy rates, and increase employment opportunities.