Artistic Bridges

0

I participate in Humanitarian Aid Convoys in Ukraine. Recently, the Compassionate Communities organization's Artistic Bridges organization asked if I might deliver art supplies to an Internally Displaced Person's camp in the East. They lacked funds, so my friends and I provided $700 worth of supplies. How wonderfully received they were. The children's therapist said that the supplies were perfect for helping the children feel "normal" again, and to get them to talk about their fears and their hopes. Art helped them express pent-up emotions. Although intended for children, the mothers who bring the children to the IDP pantry and church where support and therapy are offered, end up drawing and talking amongst themselves, too. They, too, benefit from the opportunity to express themselves --and importantly, socialize with others -- even though they are displaced. The Artistic Bridges project is meaningful. Joyful. I return to Ukraine in a few weeks and will spread it to other locations.