The Spafford Children’s Center has been providing for children in East Jerusalem for nearly 100 years.
Started by the family of Horatio Spafford, who wrote the hymn, It Is Well With My Soul, we are honoured to support the centre in its current work of providing therapy for children who are traumatised by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine.
In late May, our Church and Community Engagement Coordinator, Nils, visited the centre and spoke to its current CEO, Shahd, as well as to Jantien, who has worked with the centre for more than 40 years.
Shahd has only recently stepped into the role of CEO of the centre. She explained to Nils that the children who come to the centre display a naturally high level of stress from being exposed to consistent harassment. This comes out in behavioural issues, stuttering, and poor academic performance in school.
Children are supported by qualified teachers who can give them the attention and priority they need. The teachers provide therapy in the form of drama, art, speech and play, depending on the needs of the child. Parents of the children are also supported in how to best support their children as they learn to adjust to their circumstances.
If you would like to know more about the Spafford Children’s Center and the work we support there, including how you can support it, click here.