In today’s edition of Squirrel News, we wrap up the week with stories on Colombia’s landmark decision to eliminate child marriage after a 17-year fight, Redondo Beach’s success in drastically reducing homelessness, and how matchmaking programmes are building meaningful friendships between teens and seniors.
Colombia outlaws child marriage after 17-year campaign
Colombian lawmakers have approved a bill to close a 137-year legal loophole and eradicate child marriage in the South American country. The move comes after 17 years of campaigning by advocacy groups and eight failed attempts to push legislation through the house and senate.
How Redondo Beach reduced levels of homelessness to “functionally zero”
Homeless individuals in the area were frequently arrested for offenses like trespassing, disorderly conduct, and drug-related crimes. In 2020, City Attorney Mike Webb convinced a Torrance Superior Court judge to preside over a specialised homeless court, using judicial authority to guide defendants toward shelter and treatment rather than prison.
NHS England hopes to save thousands of lives with pill that helps smokers quit
Hundreds of thousands of smokers will be given a pill that increases people’s chances of quitting, in a move that NHS bosses believe will save thousands of lives. The pill is Varenicline: a once-a-day tablet that experts say is as effective as vapes at helping people to kick the habit.
Smart grids and drones: a safer, cheaper solution to blackouts
Loss of power is a common problem in the US but sending a truck costs a minimum of $1,500 and can put workers in danger. US Department of Energy scientists have developed a system that sends out drones to investigate, followed by a truck only when needed. They plan to have it ready for private sector investment by the end of the fiscal year.
Largest coral ever found in the Pacific unharmed by global warming
Scientists have discovered a massive coral in the Solomon Islands, estimated to be around 300 years old. The find offers a rare glimpse into past ocean conditions and could provide valuable insights into the resilience of coral ecosystems against the threat of rising sea temperatures.
Smart wheelchair tech opens new paths to independence for users
A new AI-driven device from Belgium enhances the safety and ease of controlling powered wheelchairs by learning each user’s unique movement patterns. By adapting to filter out unintentional movements caused by muscle spasms, the device makes wheelchair easier for people with limited mobility.
The UK university supporting its least advantaged students
In response to the cost-of-living crisis, the University of York has unveiled a detailed strategy aimed at tackling the financial and educational challenges faced by its most disadvantaged students.
Migrant children explore new opportunities through “science tapas”
Workshops in native languages are helping migrant children to see bilingualism as a personal and professional asset. Organised by the pan-European nonprofit Native Scientists, these sessions build links between children and scientists from their own migrant communities.
Film festival at Sing Sing offer opportunities for incarcerated men
The maximum security prison held a successful film festival for the first time with inmates invited to be the jury. One described this chance to assess five criminal justice documentaries for authenticity and excellence and to interact with prison officers and outside guests as “a once in a lifetime experience.”
How matchmaking programmes build friendships between teens and seniors
Dorot, a long-established nonprofit, is being joined by newer organisations with the same goal: creating meaningful connections between older adults and teenagers. These intergenerational friendships are helping to address the growing crisis of loneliness and isolation, worsened by the pandemic.
