Experience Play To Heal Holiday Edition [iYjECM1I]

Problem

Natural disasters and armed conflict can inflict a devastating toll on a child's emotional well-being. Children are resilient, but the emotional scars from displacement, destruction and death can last a lifetime. Structured group activities that center on sports and games are effective for post-trauma recovery.

The Gift

Mercy Corps offers sports-based recovery programs for children affected by earthquakes in Peru and China, and is ready to respond to the next emergency. This gift covers the cost of materials for two dozen kids and an adult mentor, including a caregiver manual, paper and markers, whistles and cones, and sport-appropriate equipment like badminton racquets, soccer balls or Frisbees. The spirit of friendly sports competition can also help engage entire neighborhoods and contribute to lasting, peaceful change.