The estimated number of total orphans increased from 1990-2001 where it peaked at 155.4 million. Since 2001, the estimated number of total orphans has declined consistently but very slowly – at a rate of only 0.7% per year during this period
• 1990: 146 million
• 1995: 151 million
• 2000: 155 million
• 2005: 153 million
• 2010: 146 million
• 2015: 140 million
https://www.unicef.org/media/media_45279.html

UNICEF reports orphans as those who lost one or both parents. Also according to their 2016 report, not every country reports orphans, so what is the real number? Then we have to take into account social orphans, those abandoned by their parents. The whole issue of caring for orphans seems like an overwhelming task. Yet I am grateful for those who contribute to lowering these numbers.