Special Summer Camps for Children At-Risk and their Families

Children suffering malnutrition and medical neglect cannot develop properly intellectually, emotionally and creatively. The project "Chai," launched in June 2004, is a new welfare program for children at-risk in Ukraine. This program offers welfare assistance as well as facilitates social adaptation and Jewish identity. Special Summer Camps and Family Retreats have been held with the generous support of local donors and JDC. More than 40 children at-risk attended a camp Donetsk, Ukraine and more than 300 children at-risk and their parents from Eastern Ukraine gathered at a Family Retreat in Crimea on the Black Sea.

For some participants, who did not attend the "Chai Day Care Centers", it was their first encounter with qualified professional assistance in an informal and friendly way within the framework of exploring the world of Jewish traditions and learning how to create a warm Jewish atmosphere at home. A specially trained local staff person took care of both children and adults, in a very creative way. Professional psychologists worked individually with each one and together with their parents. Special classes on family values, children development and education were organized for the parents. Fresh air, nutritious meals, love and a stimulating environment helped the children to become more social, to discover hidden talents, and to open themselves to the Jewish community.