World Vision Opens 'Child-Friendly Spaces' to Protect Haitian Quake Survivors on Dominican Border

Separation from family a critical threat to safety of quake's smallest refugees

JIMANI, Dominican Republic, Jan. 22 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On Thursday World Vision opened two children's centers at the San Jose Recovery Center and the Good Samaritan Hospital at the Haiti-Dominican Republic border town of Jimani.  The centers, called "Child-Friendly Spaces," are designed to provide children with a safe and structured place to go during crises.

The organization has expressed concern that children – especially those separated from their families – are at risk for neglect, abuse or exploitation.  The organization specifically noted the movement of children without families toward the border with the Dominican Republic as a particular danger.

"When disasters hit, children are always the most vulnerable," said Nicole Behnam, Child Protection Specialist at World Vision. "Their safety and security is of paramount concern, particularly for those who are separated from their families. The extreme poverty of Haiti already puts many children at risk of exploitation and abuse. Being separated from their families only increased their vulnerability."

At the centers, trained volunteers from the Dominican community will engage children in activities and games as well as provide them with food, pediatric care and child psychological support with the guidance of a child psychologist.

World Vision also is planning to establish recreational spaces, activities and support to adults caring for their children.

World Vision frequently operates Child-Friendly Spaces worldwide where children's lives have been disrupted by natural disaster, conflict, or exploitation. They usually consist of large tents managed by World Vision staff and trained community volunteers where children can engage in activities – such as playing, drawing, singing, and sharing their feelings – that help them begin to return to a normal routine and heal from the emotional after-effects of a catastrophic event.

"Right now, children's most urgent needs are, basic necessities, primary health care, protection, and reunification with their families," said Behnam.

Donations can be made online at www.worldvision.org or by phone at 888-56-CHILD. World Vision also has launched an SMS text giving option.  Texting "GIVE" or "WORLD" to 20222 will make a $10 donation to the Haiti relief fund.

World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. We serve the world's poor – regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender. For more information, please visit, www.worldvision.org/press

SOURCE World Vision U.S.