Dream Van delivers fun and play

Bringing the joy after a disaster 

On 6 February 2023, two earthquakes measuring more than 7 in magnitude struck southern Türkiye, causing loss, injury and destruction to property. The displacement that followed still affects many families today, including children who have lost homes and access to learning facilities.

But children’s resilience can shine through amid hardship, with the right support from compassionate people. With your kind help, this is exactly what the Save the Children Dream Van brings around Türkiye, traveling even to the most remote parts of the country to deliver Mental Health and Psychosocial Support activities. 

No one’s more delighted than children like 8-year-old Nida^*.

A much-anticipated visit

Living in a temporary settlement can be quite challenging, but Nida’s community has found moments of relief and fun through the psychosocial support activities provided by the Dream Van.

“First we played, when we arrived, they sang. We danced. It was great,”  says Nida.

Check out how the Dream Van supports children:

On their visit to Nida’s community the team entertained the children with a puppet show, followed by an engaging series of dances. Not only the children but their adult caregivers gamely participated.

These activities increase social connections, promote emotional expression and provide children with a sense of normalcy. 

Providing a safe space to heal

A puppet show fosters a sense of joy in children.
Photo: Ayşe Nur Gençalp / Save the Children Türkiye.

Aside from psychosocial support the Dream Van also builds the resilience of children. It offers a safe space where children like Nida can also receive counselling from a psychologist. 

In times of disaster and crisis, children’s emotional and social well-being are as important as ever. Thank you for supporting life-changing responses like the Dream Van to help improve the quality of children’s lives. Nida says, “When the mobile van arrives, I feel really good.”

^*Name changed to protect identity.