Every child deserves more than protection, they deserve belonging, joy, and the opportunity to participate fully in their community. For children with disabilities affected by conflict and displacement, creating safe and inclusive spaces is not simply an act of kindness; it is an investment in their wellbeing, confidence, and dignity.
With the support of Stichting Vluchteling (SV), CVC Charity Lebanon organized a special recreational event in Chhim dedicated to children with disabilities and children with additional support needs. The initiative aimed to provide a safe, welcoming environment where children could reconnect with childhood through play, creativity, and meaningful social interaction after experiencing the hardships of war and displacement.
The day featured a wide range of inclusive recreational activities designed to encourage participation and enjoyment for every child. Participants enjoyed swimming pool activities, creative workshops where they decorated colorful caps, and drawing and coloring sessions that allowed them to express their imagination freely. Face painting added excitement as children transformed themselves with colorful designs, while music from a live DJ encouraged dancing, singing, and shared celebration. Cheerful mascots and puppets filled the venue with laughter, creating joyful moments that children and their families will long remember.
In partnership with Moments on Wheels, CVC Charity also organized a special Salon on Wheels experience. Boys received fresh haircuts, while girls participated in gentle skincare and self-care activities that helped them feel confident, valued, and cared for. These simple yet meaningful experiences reminded every child that they deserve attention, respect, and moments of happiness.
The celebration concluded with the distribution of gifts, followed by a shared meal, refreshments, and a celebratory cake enjoyed by children, families, volunteers, and organizers alike. Together, these activities fostered a warm atmosphere of connection, inclusion, and community.
More than a recreational event, the initiative reflected CVC Charity and Stichting Vluchteling’s shared commitment to supporting the emotional wellbeing and social inclusion of children with disabilities. Through accessible activities, creative expression, and opportunities to build friendships, the event demonstrated how inclusive environments can strengthen children’s confidence, reduce isolation, and promote a sense of belonging.
In Lebanon, disability has often been approached through charitable or medical perspectives. While care and specialized support remain essential, disability is fundamentally a matter of human rights, equal opportunities, and full participation in society. The social model of disability recognizes that many of the challenges people with disabilities face are created not by their impairments, but by physical, social, and institutional barriers that limit inclusion. This rights-based approach is reflected in the principles of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which emphasizes equality, accessibility, participation, and respect for the dignity of every individual.
Periods of conflict and displacement often deepen these barriers. Children affected by war may experience disrupted education, emotional distress, and limited opportunities to participate in everyday childhood activities. For children with disabilities, these challenges can become even greater when accessible services and inclusive environments are unavailable. Creating opportunities for recreation, friendship, and creative expression therefore becomes an important part of supporting children’s psychosocial wellbeing and helping them rebuild confidence in themselves and those around them.
