In the midst of genocide in Gaza and escalated violence and oppression in other areas of Palestine, MECA works to spread hope and joy among the children who suffer every day from Zionist colonialism. This year our partner organizations ran eight summer camps in several locations in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

Summer camp activities included psychodrama, handicrafts, performing arts, sports, and debka (traditional dance). Some camps included academic classes, and workshops about the rights of children and refugees. A few held workshops for parents focused on positive parenting, stress relief, and other mental health concerns.

Life under occupation impacts the psychological health and behavior of many kids in Palestine. When TD, a 9-year old boy started camp, he couldn’t sit still, didn’t like to share with others, couldn’t express himself, was aggressive. He refused to join group activities and he often got very frustrated easily and often. Then, after just a few days TD’s attitude and behavior improved. He was able to listen to his fellow campers and instructor, follow rules, and finish projects.