Syria, Aleppo
Children
Sep, 2024
A generation of Syrian children has grown up knowing nothing but the harsh reality of life in refugee camps. These camps have become their homeland, depriving them of the childhood experiences that are crucial for growth, learning, and play. Many children in northern Syria do not get to enjoy a safe, loving, and protective environment that every child deserves. Instead, their daily lives are marked by the constraints and hardships of camp life.
During one of our tours, we met a 9-year-old girl named Maryam. In our conversation, she revealed the stark reality of her life in the camp. Maryam spends most of her time playing within the confines of the camp, where there are no toys or playgrounds. Her words reflected the deep longing for a normal childhood experience.
"I have not been to the games and amusement parks except once in a long time and here there is nothing to play with. I really love playing on the swings, but it has been a long time since I went and played on them and my father does not take us to the amusement parks. I hope that we will have games here or that our situation will improve and we will go to the amusement parks.
Maryam's experience is shared by dozens of children who are deprived of their right to play, a fundamental aspect of childhood that contributes to their development and well-being.
Recognizing the dire conditions of children in the camps and the importance of play in their lives, Physicians Across Continents (PAC) took action. The organization focused on helping children exercise their simplest rights, including the right to play. To bring joy to these children and draw smiles on their faces, PAC established a garden for earthquake victims in the city of Salqin.
In a second meeting with Maryam after her visit to the newly established garden, she expressed her joy and happiness:
"I am very happy because I really loved playing on the swings, and I played now and had fun with my friends, and I will continue to come here."
The creation of the garden has had a profound impact on Maryam and other children in the camp. It provided a safe space for them to play, interact with friends, and experience the joy that is so essential for their emotional and psychological development. For Maryam, being able to play on the swings and have fun with her friends was a significant and memorable experience.
Making a child happy is more valuable than anything, and drawing a smile on their faces is the pinnacle of happiness. Physicians Across Continents is dedicated to finding ways to bring joy to children in refugee camps. By establishing play areas and providing opportunities for children to enjoy their right to play, PAC aims to improve their quality of life and support their development.
PAC is active nutrition NGO in the Syrian context since 2012 and has long experience in the field through over than 700 staff, and 39 field facilities
Kıtalararası Doktorlar Derneği Physicians Across Continents (PAC-Türkiye) is a humanitarian nonprofit NGO established in 2012 by humanitarian health workers to serve the affected people. We believe that all people in need, regardless of where they are or their gender, religion, or political affiliation, have the right to be served and supported.
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