Sincere Art through Creative Therapy with the Sincere Heart Foundation
Ukraine | The Charitable Foundation "Sincere Heart" recently concluded its remarkable Recovery Camp. Designed to support the mental and physical health of those affected by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the camp welcomed 650 participants. Internally displaced children and mothers, children from families who fled or were under occupation, children of families living in de-occupied territories, children of families who lost members due to the war, and children with disabilities from affected families.
Art therapy played a central role in the camp's activities. Utilizing materials provided by the Royal Talens Foundation, children participated in neurographics, creative workshops, and practical psychological exercises. These activities, facilitated by professional psychologists, allowed children to express their emotions and experiences through art.
Prominent contributors to the art therapy sessions included teachers specializing in drawing from the Creative Youth centre of Galicia, Ukraine, who conducted masterclasses for the children. Renowned art instructor Lera Umanets also held engaging art workshops, inspiring the young participants to explore their creativity.
The camp was filled with poignant moments, especially those related to the drawings created by the children. These artworks became cherished mementos, symbolizing personal stories and significant memories. For instance, one little girl, who had to leave her beloved pet behind when fleeing from occupation, created a vibrant picture of her red cat. This drawing served as a poignant reminder of her furry companion.
Another touching story involved a girl who painted a portrait of her father, currently serving in the military. Separated from him for an extended period, the act of creating this portrait was a deeply emotional experience, symbolizing the enduring bond they share despite the physical distance.
Similarly, a young boy formed a close bond with the play therapy specialists during the camp. In gratitude, he created a heartfelt drawing of them, which he proudly took home. This picture now serves as a joyful reminder of the fulfilling experience he had at the camp.
About Lviv Charitable Foundation "Sincere Heart"
Founded in 2014, the Lviv Charitable Foundation "Sincere Heart" is a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring the mental and physical health of Ukrainians affected by the war. They offer free psychological assistance to Ukrainians. With over 250 specialists, it has provided more than 18,000 consultations to over 3,000 individuals as of January 2024. Furthermore they host recovery camps, this project provides systematic psychoemotional support to mothers and children through family camps. Over 200 camps have been held, benefiting more than 17,000 individuals, including 60% children and 40% mothers. Also they have created an online platform supporting children and teenagers who have witnessed the war.
For more information about Sincere Heart Foundation and its initiatives, visit their website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
The donated materials from the Royal Talens Foundation where sent to the Recovery Camps by our dear distributor Rosa. Because of their tremendous efforts all participants could use our creative materials.
Supported projects
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In September and October 2024, the SAWA Collective, a non-profit organization supporting young adult asylum seekers in the Netherlands, partnered with the Royal Talens Foundation to host a series of empowering creative workshops for women residing in an asylum seekers’ centre in Amsterdam.
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The past year has been marked by intense violence, suffering, and heartbreak in various conflict zones around the world. We want to emphasize that we stand with all victims in a conflict and support organisations that help these victims when needed.
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The Lisbon Project’s Summer Art Project is in full swing, and the impact has been profound, thanks to the generous donation of materials by the Royal Talens Foundation. Last month, a debrief meeting with lead Art Therapist Paola Villanueva and her assistant highlighted the project’s success and outlined the next steps.
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