The Challenge:

Gilgit, Pakistan, recently experienced a catastrophic glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF), causing immense destruction to homes and livelihoods. The sudden disaster left the community in shock, grappling with loss and the daunting task of rebuilding lives. Click here to verify

"Amidst the ruins left by the flood, our spirits too needed mending," - Irfan (a local resident)

The Solution:

In response to the emotional turmoil caused by the GLOF, Ayesha, a dedicated social worker in Gilgit, proposed the development of Art Therapy Outreach Programs. With Gaza999's support, these programs were designed to bring therapeutic art sessions directly to schools, senior centers, and neighborhoods most affected by the flood.

"Art therapy brought a sense of calm and creativity to the chaos that had engulfed our lives," - Ayesha (social worker)

The Implementation:

Ayesha began with a comprehensive needs assessment to identify the community groups most affected by the flood. This assessment helped tailor the art therapy sessions to address the specific emotional scars left by the disaster.

Next, Ayesha focused on recruiting and training local facilitators. These individuals, selected for their empathy and leadership within the community, received training in basic art therapy techniques to ensure the sustainability and cultural relevance of the outreach programs. Mobile art therapy kits, equipped with all necessary supplies, were distributed to these facilitators, enabling them to conduct sessions effectively across various settings.

"The training not only equipped us with the tools to help others but also taught us the value of healing through creativity," - Bilal (trained facilitator)

The Impact:

The Art Therapy Outreach Programs have successfully reached hundreds of Gilgit's residents, providing a much-needed outlet for emotional expression and recovery. Schools reported improved mood and engagement among students, while elderly community members found new joy and connections through shared art sessions.

"Our community is slowly coloring its way out of the shadows of the flood, finding strength and unity in every stroke," - Hina (school principal)

Lessons Learned:

• Targeted Therapy Sessions: Designing therapy sessions to meet the specific needs of different community groups ensured that the interventions were effective and meaningful.

• Community-Based Facilitator Training: Training local facilitators not only empowered the community but also enhanced the program's acceptance and sustainability.

• Integration with Local Services: Collaborating with local services ensured that art therapy was embedded within the broader recovery efforts, providing a holistic approach to healing.

• Continuous Evaluation for Improvement: Ongoing evaluation and adaptation of the programs based on community feedback were crucial in maintaining their relevance and impact.