Improving the lives of children with special needs

Dear Friend,

Thank you for improving the lives of children with special needs in Bethlehem. Because of supporters like you, children who once faced their challenges alone are now receiving the care, therapy, and encouragement they need to grow, learn, and thrive.

What your support made possible

Our rehabilitation program currently supports around 30 children, aged 2 to 12 years, living with a range of disabilities and special needs across the refugee camps of Bethlehem. Each child follows an individual plan and receives approximately three sessions per week, combining physiotherapy and occupational therapy to build mobility, strength, coordination, and the everyday skills that lead toward greater independence.

We believe in being open with you about the conditions we work in. The security situation in our area remains difficult, and sessions sometimes have to be paused or rescheduled to keep our children and staff safe. Despite these interruptions, our specialists and our families stay committed — because for a child in development, every consistent session counts, and giving up is never an option.

Real change, real children (Names have been changed and details adjusted to protect the privacy of the children and their families.)

"Layla," age 4, came to us unable to sit without support. After months of regular therapy, she can now sit independently and is beginning to stand — a milestone her family had almost stopped hoping for.

"Yousef," age 9, struggled with hand coordination that made writing and eating difficult. Through occupational therapy, he can now hold a pencil and feed himself, gaining confidence at school and dignity at home.

"Sara," age 6, was withdrawn and silent during her first sessions. With patient, play-based therapy, she now smiles, speaks, and joins in group activities she once avoided.

These stories are representative of the everyday progress your generosity makes possible — one child, one step, one smile at a time.

A growing need

The demand for our services continues to rise. More families are reaching out, more children are living with injuries and disabilities, and our waiting list is longer than ever. Your ongoing support keeps our therapy rooms open and our specialists working, so that no child is turned away for lack of care.

Thank you for standing beside these children and their families. Your kindness is changing lives in ways that will last far beyond today.

With deep gratitude,
Rua Ahmed Abu Odeh