The toll of war rests particularly heavy on the souls of children. Many of these children have been forced to flee their homes, some have lost parents, and others live with the constant fear of violence. These hardships, combined with the uncertainty of their futures, make it difficult for them to experience the joys of childhood. At Be an Angel, we believe that every child deserves a chance to heal and find happiness, even in the most challenging times. That’s why we’ve launched a special summer program in Odesa aimed at improving the psycho-emotional condition of internally displaced children
In August and July, Be an Angel collaborated with Fond Krok and hosted a creative camp in Odesa for 25 children aged 8-12. These children have all been affected by the war—whether as refugees, children of war veterans, or those who have lost one or both parents. The goal of the camp is to provide these children with a space where they can heal emotionally, adapt to their new environment, and rediscover joy through creative and therapeutic activities.
Each day of the camp is themed around a different color, symbolizing various aspects of life and emotions, and incorporates activities that promote mental health, socialization, and fun. For example, on the first day, the children focus on “Me and My Family,” engaging in team-building exercises, creative projects, and a fun cooking class at a local café. This day helps them reconnect with the idea of family and belonging, which is crucial for their emotional recovery.
As the week progresses, the children participate in a range of activities that include visits to the Odesa Zoo, art therapy sessions, and trips to local museums. These activities are not just about entertainment; they are carefully designed to address the children’s psychological needs. For instance, the art therapy sessions allow the children to express their dreams and emotions in a safe and supportive environment, while the group discussions help them build connections with their peers and mentors.
One of the most special days of the program is dedicated to friendship. The children create “friendship bracelets” and write letters, fostering a sense of camaraderie and support among them. The day culminates in a visit to the Odesa Dolphinarium, where the children can experience the joy and wonder of seeing dolphins up close—a much-needed escape from the harsh realities of their daily lives.
The camp concludes with a celebration of love and connection. The final day features a fun-filled animation program in the park, a paper show, and a children’s concert, where the young participants are awarded for their bravery and resilience. This celebration is not just a conclusion of the camp but a reaffirmation that even in difficult times, love and joy can still be found.
Our summer camp in Odesa is more than just a series of activities—it’s a lifeline for children who have experienced the unimaginable. Through this program, we aim to provide these young survivors with the tools they need to cope with their experiences and begin the healing process. By focusing on their mental and emotional well-being, we hope to help them build a brighter future, despite the ongoing conflict.
As we continue to support Ukrainian children through initiatives like this, we are reminded of the incredible resilience of these young individuals. They inspire us every day with their strength and courage, and we are committed to standing by them, no matter what the future holds.
Stay tuned for more updates on our programs and how you can support the children of Ukraine during these challenging times. Together, we can make a difference.
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