Kfarhay News
SOS Lebanon's Response to Village Relocation: Prioritizing Care and Adaptation Amid Crisis
In response to the escalating conflict and security conditions in Lebanon, SOS Children’s Villages Lebanon made the critical decision to relocate the children and caregivers of SOS Village Ksarnaba to the safer area of Kfarhay. The transition was challenging, but with coordinated efforts, the relocation was carried out smoothly, ensuring the well-being of children, caregivers, and their families. Our priority has been creating a nurturing environment that helps everyone adjust to their new surroundings while preserving a sense of security and normalcy.
Emotional and Mental Health Support
The relocation caused emotional stress for both children and caregivers. To address this, our teams immediately focused on providing emotional and psychological support. Group sessions were organized to help caregivers process their emotions, share their experiences, and build emotional resilience. Necessary follow-ups for children have been conducted, ensuring ongoing mental health support to help them cope with the trauma of both the relocation and the conflict.
Workshops and Skills Training Empowering Caregivers and Children
In addition, workshops and training sessions were designed to help both caregivers and children manage the difficulties of their new circumstances. The training sessions covered several areas to equip caregivers with practical skills for managing emergencies and supporting children's well-being. Caregivers were also introduced to daily checklists to establish healthy routines, while hygiene workshops aimed at improving living conditions for all.
Engaging Activities for Children: A Sense of Normalcy
Recognizing the importance of recreation for children’s emotional well-being, we organized outings to local attractions such as beach days at resorts and meals at local restaurants to bring moments of joy and normalcy to their lives. Within the village, children participated in football games, creative arts sessions, and mandala painting activities, offering them a chance to express themselves and bond with one another.
Educational Development: Ensuring Continuity in Learning
Education has remained a core focus throughout this transition. We worked to assess the academic levels of all children, ensuring their educational needs were met despite the challenges they faced. Personalized learning plans were developed, ensuring that each child receives the resources and support necessary to continue the educational journey.
Youth Participation: Fostering Social Responsibility
Involving youth in this relocation process was essential, as it gave them the opportunity to contribute actively to their community. Youth participated in various activities, including the cleaning and preparation of the village, as well as the care of younger children. This engagement helped them build a sense of responsibility and social awareness, contributing to their personal growth and reinforcing the importance of volunteerism and compassion.