Esperanza International began collaborating with Amazonian communities adversely affected by oil contamination in 2003. Since its inception, the organization has distributed educational supplies to impoverished schools, medical supplies and support to struggling local clinics, and more than 15,000 pairs of shoes to destitute children. Through these undertakings, Esperanza has strengthened local communities and built solidarity and trust among North Americans, Indigenous Amazonians, and Ecuadorian colonists.

In addition, Esperanza has educated Americans about the social and environmental consequences of oil extraction. Through trips to contaminated areas of the Ecuadorian Amazon, teachers, students, and other professionals have been provided the first-hand knowledge necessary to effectively advocate for local communities and to spread awareness of the consequences of global oil contamination.