Providing emergency support for children and youth in psychiatric ward during wartime

Since the beginning of the "Am Kalbi" military operation and the escalation of missile attacks, children and adolescents hospitalized in closed psychiatric wards are facing growing emotional distress. The school year has effectively ended for them — removing a vital stabilizing routine at the very moment they need it most. Far from their families and support systems, they are exposed to the constant background noise of news updates, while relying on clinical staff who are increasingly overstretched. Many staff members have been called up for emergency reserve duty, while those remaining are coping with overwhelming stress after 20 months of ongoing conflict. These children, already struggling with severe mental health challenges, are now left with even fewer resources. Ze Benafshi is stepping in to fill this critical void. In response to this emergency, we’ve already delivered dozens of LEGO kits, puzzles, and a wide range of creative materials to provide relief and structure through therapeutic play. But the needs are urgent and ongoing — and we’re operating under extreme uncertainty, knowing this crisis may continue for weeks or months. Research shows that such creative and engaging activities can significantly reduce self-harm among children and youth in psychiatric care, and help pave the way for long-term recovery and reintegration into society. 💙 Your support today can bring comfort, hope, and stability to the most vulnerable — when they need it most.