2023 Turkey–Syria Earthquakes: Psycho-social Support Program
On February 6th, 2023, Turkey and Syria were struck by a magnitude 7.8 earthquake. PBV is continuing its relief activities through the local partner, Nirengi Association.
In the end of April, PBV has dispatched two staff members to check progress on the ground.
In the suburbs of Antakya, Hatay Province in southern Turkey, where the earthquake caused particularly severe damage, kindergartens and nursery schools had not been adequately established even before the earthquake struck. Therefore, as part of its support activities, PBV set up several container houses called “Nirengi Point” in this area as a safe place for children to play and learn.
Currently, more than 100 children attend this facility every month. Together with the Nirengi Association staff, who are experts in education and psychology, the children enjoy arts and crafts, dance, music, and other activities.
During our visit, we interviewed some of the parents. According to their story, the children were very afraid of loud noises and thunderstorms immediately after the earthquake, and they were blocked up inside their houses. However, after participating in the program at Nirengi Point, the chidlren
- began to feel safe and secure.
- became more sociable
- developed vocabulary and skills to express their feelings
- developed moral values and are able to distinguish between good and bad behavior
Besides children, Nirengi Point also offers individual counseling for adults. Both groups and individuals affected by the disaster are welcome to use this service for emotional care.
At Nirengi Point, program is not only targeting children group, but also individual adult counseling are available. This program is intended to provide psycho-social support to all affected residents and groups.