Palestinian children are growing up with a deep sense of hopelessness and insecurity about their future. According to UNICEF, one in four children are in need of psychosocial support to prevent the progression of mental health disorders. Left untreated, children face major challenges from educational attainments to leading productive lives.
In addition to our Ramadan food distribution, KinderUSA is supporting 1450 children from 7 areas of Gaza devastated by war and the ongoing blockade (approx. 200 children from each area). Local youth are paid a small stipend to act as mentors implementing activities during the month of Ramadan. Each area will implement balloon launching, parachute games, relay races, cultural competition, and story telling to name some of the activities. The beneficiary children were an integral part of the decision making process as to which games and programs to implement. “When we arrived to the area for the initial meeting, the children chased the bus!”, said Mohammed. “They are anxious to be a part of the fun.”
At the close of each day, a meal is provided with some children carrying the meals home to eat with their families, while others stay and break fast with their friends. Thank you to all who made this program possible for the children in Gaza!
