This family participated in a 6-day Recovery Camp designed to help children who face mental health challenges as a result of the war. The program provides children and their mothers with psycho-emotional rehabilitation by mental health professionals and recreational counselors. Children are engaged in play therapy, art therapy, music, games, and yoga. Over 1/3 of children who attend these camps are identified as having symptoms of PTSD and are referred to psychologists for follow-up services.
Living Through War
Kateryna, Kharkiv, Ukraine: “Kharkiv is heavily attacked by Shaheds and bombarded. It is becoming increasingly difficult for children to endure each terrible night, and now there is also shelling during the day. They need a chance to rest and focus on something positive. Many children lack communication with their peers because they are afraid to leave the house. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity for my children to experience moments of joy and to remember what childhood should feel like.“
Recovery Camp Impact
“Good day, everyone! My children and I are so happy to have had the opportunity to spend time with your team. It’s been just one day since we returned home, but they haven’t stopped singing the songs from camp. I am incredibly grateful to your entire team for the wonderful time we shared. Only now do I realize that it wasn’t a dream but a real fairy tale you created for me and my children.
They are now so refreshed and energized that they want to communicate and connect more with others. We’ve made so many friends, and in such a short time, it felt like all the mothers and children became one big, friendly family. Before arriving, I was very worried about how my children would interact with their peers. The war has left them withdrawn and “wild.” But now they have new friends, and they continue to communicate online, play games together, and stay connected.
Thanks to you, my children are happy, and of course, I am happy because I hear their laughter and joyful stories about their adventures. Their biggest dream now is to return to you again.
From the bottom of my heart, I thank you all and send you a big hug. I wish you a quick victory and a peaceful sky above your head. We believe in the future, and you are simply the best!“
