The traumatized children of the Deheishe Refugee Camp, near Bethlehem in Palestine, lack fun and hope in life. Karama's education center aspires to give these forgotten children hope, self-confidence and job skills through English language and computer skills. Or they can simply be themselves and be children in our drama, dabka and crafts workshops.
The 10,000 children in Deheishe Refugee Camp grow up under occupation in an environment of despair, poverty and violence, and have no hope for the future. The two camp schools are overcrowded and inadequate with over 50 children in each class. The concrete streets provide no space to play and many children suffer neglect or violence in their homes.
Karama provides our children with a safe place to be themselves, and to give them opportunities they cannot access otherwise. Through educational classes in English, IT, democracy, rights and leadership the children develop self-confidence and much-needed job skills. Palestinian and international volunteers run workshops in crafts, drama and dance, strengthening the children's cultural identity. During Ramadan, the children meet at night to share Iftar (food to break the fast).
Karama center empowers refugee children and youth to become active citizens who shape their future in a peaceful and constructive way. So far we have improved the lives of over 1300 children by providing a safe haven for education, opportunities, and joy. Our Palestinian volunteers who have been members of Karama for several years are the living proof of this. Many are now studying at university (a rare occurrence in Palestinian refugee camps) and play major roles in the local society.
