In Focus

Food item and non-food item distribution would be the first response in most natural disaster such as earthquake. Both are important in meeting the basic needs of affected community. However, many feelings and emotional or physical reaction are shared after the earthquake. Fears of future disaster or events associated with disaster, regresssive behavior, or sleep disturbances and nightmares are common among people who experienced disaster, children in particular.  Thus, making children one of the most vulnerable group in emergency setting. Therefore, psychosocial response holds an important role in tackling this matter.

Church World Service therefore set up Children Friendly Space or CFS, a place where children and youth can meet other children to play, be involved in some educational activities and relax in Sungai Limau sub-district. CFS is purposed to provide a safe, friendly and conducive environment for the healthy physical and psychosocial development of children affected by the earthquake.

CWS has trained 15 volunteers with education and medical background to run activities in the CFS. Tents will be erected in eight villages in Sungai Limau sub-district to function as CFS. [IS/10/2009]