ART MATERIALS FOR CHILD REFUGEES

In the spring of 2022, I volunteered at Amsterdam Central Station, helping families arriving from Ukraine, fleeing the war. Many were children—frightened, exhausted, and far from home. Each time, I brought pencils and paper with me, and slowly, through simple drawings and games, the quiet began to lift. Some children started to smile again. But one little boy sat silently, drawing tanks, missiles coming from blue skies, and a house in ruins. His pictures spoke more than words could —the trauma he carried and the world he’d escaped from. In that moment, I realized I couldn’t take away what these children had been through. But I could give them a small space for peace, expression, and play through my understanding of what art is able to bring out in one. That’s what inspired me to start this fundraiser.

Thanks to your kindness, I was able to buy art supplies and deliver them to shelters throughout the city. I also began hosting creative workshops in hostels—for children and adults—where we made collages, pop-up drawings, paper wild flowers, paintings, and Christmas doves for the tree. While we were making, people began to tell me some of their experiences. Together we created a few moments of light in the darkest of times.

Volunteering with those displaced by war and violence has changed how I see the world.

Your generosity brought joy, healing, and hope. Thank you.

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• Please note, donations for this project are now closed.