By David duPlantier and Wendy Whiting Blome | Project Leaders
The Palestinian children served by the Spafford Children's Center (SCC) in East Jerusalem are dealing with unprecedented levels of trauma daily. They see the bombardment of Gaza on the news, and hear their parents talk about the loss of family and friends. Throughout Jerusalem there is an intense presence of police, and residents face checkpoints in and out of surrounding Palestinian neighborhoods. Schools were closed for weeks, shifting to online instruction for those fortunate enough to have internet connections. The SCC staff and families have been questioned as they enter the gates of the Old City. Teachers and therapists who live in the West Bank were not able to cross into Jerusalem until recently. In these difficult conditions the SCC director, psychologist, and social worker met in person and via zoom with the staff to give them an opportunity to share their experiences, fears, and concerns for the families they serve.
The trauma treatment program of the SCC is in high demand. Parents are calling and asking for help in explaining the situation to their children, managing their own reactions, and supporting their children who have experienced significant trauma. The SCC has responded. There are psychosocial sessions for families via zoom; individual and group meetings for families, particularly mothers, who can get to the Center; and trauma treatment for children and adolescents by the SCC trauma specialist and social worker. While the SCC works to respond to the immediate needs of children and families in East Jerusalem, it is also planning for the future. Recognizing the ongoing trauma and challenges in the region, the SCC is developing a comprehensive strategy to ensure continued support and healing for the community including extended therapy, support groups, and resources to help children and families cope over the long term.
These service responses to the emergency are not funded by any grants. Therefore, the American Friends of the Spafford Children's Center is making an urgent appeal for your help. Please give as generously as you can through GlobalGiving at https://goto.gg/31839.
We thank you for your support and pray for peace for all in the region.
The Very Rev. David duPlantier, Vice ChairandWendy Whiting Blome, PhD, Secretary/TreasurerAmerican Friends of the Spafford Children's Center
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