After six days, the rooms of the Safe House are on their way to a complete transformation. They’re equipped to comfort women during times of extreme need and trauma. And, they’re looking beautiful.
Once we’ve finished, women who seek refuge at ARC’s Safe Houses will find a calming environment to rest and reflect. But many of those women come with their children, too. In fact, mothers often leave their homes in order to protect those children, to keep them away from violence and abuse. Like mothers all over the world, moms at Nakivale want their kids to be safe, to be protected, to have the best that life has to offer.
When children are staying at the Safe House, it’s possible that, in addition to the trauma they’re facing, their schooling is being interrupted as well. Children need an outlet to play, to learn, and to grow. But before this renovation, the Safe Houses were not equipped to support the children in this way, with no items specifically meant for them.
Day 7 is all about kids. During their stay at the Safe House, they can grab one of the coloring pages – choosing from trees, monkeys, cows, and goats – and color the shapes with crayons and colored pencils. Toy cars, building blocks, and puzzles let kids use their imagination and problem solving skills. They can practice reading, looking at the bright pages and colorful images.
Not only does the Kid’s Corner create a safe, fun, and healing space for kids, it allows their mothers some free time and peace of mind while their children play. It lets mothers feel at ease, knowing that their children are busy playing, expanding their minds and finding joy during difficult times.
At Nakivale and for children who are facing domestic abuse, childhood is often cut far too short. But now, with these simple yet powerful changes, kids can act like kids again.
For under $500, we’ve made the Safe House at Nakivale a place where children can relax – and have fun. Now, starting tomorrow, we’ll turn our efforts back to the personal dignity and care of their moms. Stay tuned!
