This Project will run a bicycle library in 6 low income communities of Lahore, Pakistan and will provide a rich supply of books to 300 children on average. This is an action to bring smiles to children stuck at home in times of covid; battling mental stress, uncertainty, school closure and loss in income of their parents. This critical literacy support service will not just bring activity based learning but will also act as psycho-social therapy for these traumatized children.

Challenge

We are addressing a very unique and mostly ignored aspect of COVID-19 in Pakistan, which is how to mitigate the negative effects of home confinement in children. Home confinement, fear of disease, lack of interaction with friends, financial loss, school dropout, have caused psychological stress at a vulnerable age. It is especially acute for those from low income communities and one-room homes. With no school to divert and occupy them, children have been struggling to remain mentally healthy.

Long-Term Impact

This project will provide access to quality literature to 300 children from 6 communities and improve reading skills, it will benefit children under stress through activity based story telling, traumatized children will be counselled and taken care of. It will give them hope and bring smiles through its puppet theater & fun activities. Those dropped out of school will get a sense of direction and mentor to guide them in this difficult time.

References

1. http://www.aliflaila.org.pk
2. https://youtu.be/7ccBBxiM86k

Additional Documentation

https://www.globalgiving.org//pfil/50476/projdoc.xlsx

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