When Lilit and Milena, the resilient Petrosyan sisters, arrived at FAR's Mardigian Child Protection Center in Berd, they were met with a heartwarming sight - a group of children holding colorful balloons and welcome notes providing an instant balm for their spirits.
Hailing from Artsakh, the sisters bore the weight of fear and psychological trauma, stemming from a nine-month blockade and the horrors of war, culminating in a forced exodus. The perpetual fear of danger haunted their young hearts. Responding to their needs, the Center swiftly provided individual and group psychological therapies to ease their burdens.
"In the dead of night on September 19, as artillery rained down relentlessly, we took shelter in Haterk village's school, unaware that this haven would become a 24-hour ordeal. As the destruction showed no respite, I made a frantic dash to our home, clutching our vital documents, unknowingly marking the poignant farewell to our cherished life in Artsakh," recounted Lusine Petrosyan, a resilient single mother of eight. Their arduous journey continued, spending a desolate night at Stepanakert airport, and later finding temporary refuge in a university shelter, deprived of sustenance and warmth. Only on September 27th did their weary spirits find solace in the welcoming embrace of Goris, and eventually, the tranquil Tavush village in the Berd region.
Lilit, 8, and Milena, 17, are now striving to integrate into their new life, engaging in social activities and artistic pursuits with the other children. Ruzanna Adamyan, the Center psychologist, affirmed their commitment: "We're dedicated to providing individual and group psychological therapies, creating a haven where Milena and Lilit can find solace from their fears. Our mission extends to fostering open communication among all the Center's children."
This psychological support is part of FAR's emergency humanitarian campaign, initiated in early October, serving 14,000 displaced individuals who have sought refuge in various provinces across Armenia, including Tavush, Syunik, Ararat, Aragatsotn, Vayots Dzor, and Lori.
In addition to this vital emergency support, FAR is actively planning long-term developmental initiatives. To make this vision a reality and ensure a brighter future for more displaced families, we rely on your generous donations to FAR today.
Together, let's be the beacon of hope for our Artsakhtsi brothers and sisters.