In Hatay, where container settlements offer little beyond shelter, children have found a new sense of belonging through the Lemon Tree Children’s Counselling Centre, established by our grantee partner, the Human Health and Education Foundation (Insan Sağlığı ve Eğitim Vakfı – INSEV).
Founded in 1998 by doctors, academics, and educators, INSEV works to strengthen solidarity, address social challenges, and support those most in need. They help children and young people grow into thoughtful, socially responsible individuals who can realise their potential.
After the 2023 earthquakes, INSEV extended its work to affected communities, providing essential health and education services. In Hatay, their focus has been on trauma-informed care, play therapy, and creative workshops, giving children space to process their experiences and rediscover joy.
Supporting Children and Families
With our grant support, INSEV launched the Hatay Lemon Tree Children’s Counselling Centre, ensuring children facing trauma and adaptation challenges, and their families, could access much-needed mental health services. Through the centre, INSEV:
- Ran creative group workshops to encourage emotional expression and social bonds, including rhythm exercises, storytelling, clay and mosaic work, painting, and origami, led by a child development specialist.
- Provided nearly 200 counselling sessions for parents, focusing on family communication, emotional wellbeing, and referrals to public services.
- Delivered parenting seminars in schools, reaching over 120 parents with practical guidance on post-disaster stress and parenting approaches.
Lasting Impact
In total, INSEV reached around 1,100 people through psychosocial support, therapy sessions, group workshops, school-based activities, and parent support initiatives. As a result, children showed fewer trauma symptoms and stronger social and emotional skills. Also, parents reported improved communication and closer relationships with their children.
As INSEV reflects on the project’s success:
“This project laid the foundation for our psychological support and recovery work. The lessons we’ve learned will shape our future projects and help us create better solutions.”
Thank You to Our Donors
By creating safe spaces, rebuilding social connections, and strengthening mental health, INSEV has planted seeds of hope in Hatay, helping children and families heal together. This work was made possible by the generosity of our donors.
Watch our video interview with INSEV to learn more about their work and the impact of the Lemon Tree Children’s Counselling Centre.
