In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, children around the world are experiencing an increase in serious mental health problems. Whether it’s the stress and anxiety of living through uncertainty, or the anger and pain of grief for a loved one who has died, children need the right support to help them confront and overcome these emotional challenges.
Donate to our children's projects
Your donation today, will go directly towards our work with children. You will be helping children like Farisai. This could be vital counselling for children affected by COVID-19, therapy for children who have lived through the trauma of conflict or providing a safe place for children to play. You’ll be supporting local experts like Isabell- people who understand the needs of their community better than anyone.
Farisai's Story
Farisai is 14 years old. Her mum died when she was young, so she was raised by her grandmother. During the pandemic, Farisai and her grandmother both became dangerously ill with coronavirus.
Farisai was dealing with more than any child should. Coping with grief and loneliness as a child is challenging enough, but Farisai was pulled away from vital support networks at school – her friends and teachers – as well as the opportunity to get an education.
Isabell is a social worker at St Albert’s Mission Hospital in, Zimbabwe who runs specially designed Singing to the Lions workshops for young people facing life’s biggest obstacles. Thanks to donations from people like you, Farisai was invited to join a workshop. Here, she learnt positive coping strategies through counselling, group therapy and team-building activities. The activities are designed to help children confront their ‘Lions’- the biggest emotional challenges in their lives.
“During the Singing to the Lions workshop, I learnt that when I am angry, I should not get violent with other people or retaliate. I enjoyed being able to talk to Isabell. I really enjoyed dancing to music and singing – and having no troubles on my mind.”