LEBANON

At Kids Alive Lebanon, students recently participated in our annual “Favourite Book Presentation,” a cherished tradition that brings stories to life and helps build essential skills. Each student selected a book from the school library, summarised it, and presented it in English to their classmates and teachers.

This special activity wasn’t just about reading—it encouraged creativity, boosted self-confidence, and helped students develop their ability to communicate and connect. Teachers and students enjoyed thinking together and planning the presentations, creating a joyful, engaging atmosphere. Each student received a bookmark to mark the day and inspire continued reading. Moments like these are part of how we offer children tools to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

KENYA

After nearly two years of planning, Kids Alive Kenya has officially partnered with St Paul's University to launch a powerful new internship programme! This exciting partnership allows students studying social work, counselling psychology, and education to join our sites and gain hands-on experience each term, especially our Nairobi Hope Centre in Africa's largest slum.

By stepping into our programmes, these interns will build their skills and bring fresh ideas, energy, and extra support where needed most. Through exposure to trauma-informed care and TBRI principles, they'll become advocates for healing-centred work in their communities, helping us expand our mission of creating trauma-responsive environments where children and families thrive. This collaboration also opens the door to future research, capacity building, and community development initiatives. It's a win for students, Kids Alive, and Kenya!

ZAMBIA

Twelve-year-old *Sibongile arrived at the Lilato Centre in Zambia with more than bruises.  She carried the heavy weight of abuse, neglect, and trauma. After enduring physical violence and hunger at the hands of her father, she was referred to Lilato by social welfare. Her father’s abuse led to a three-year prison sentence, and Sibongile, pale and withdrawn, needed urgent care and stability. She hadn’t been to school in over a year, but within weeks of arriving at Lilato, her wounds began to heal, and her smile returned. Enrolled in first grade, she quickly impressed her teachers and advanced to second grade.

Through months of counselling, Sibongile found the courage to forgive her father. “I have forgiven my father… and I want to visit him in prison. But I would like to stay with my aunt Ruth,” she said. That dream became reality when, after 22 months at Lilato, she was joyfully reunited with her aunt and began a new life in Kaoma. Now in fourth grade at a local school, Sibongile is dreaming big—she wants to become a nurse. Her journey is a powerful reminder of the mission of Kids Alive, to provide trauma-informed care and healing for every child who deserves safety, education, and the chance to thrive.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

At our Santo Domingo East school in the Dominican Republic, something beautiful is happening.  Students are learning that true growth comes not just through correction, but through restoration.

This year, the staff worked together to identify the 15 most common classroom misbehaviours and created a clear, step-by-step process to guide students toward healing and reconciliation. One unique element is the Peace Ladder, a tool that helps students in conflict walk through guided conversations with support from designated restoration staff.

Not only has behaviour in the classroom improved, but hearts are being transformed. During one Peace Ladder moment, a student repented and gave their life to Christ. This is what Kids Alive is all about - creating spaces where children experience healing justice and grow in faith, character, and love.

GUATEMALA

Friendship was in the air at Kids Alive Guatemala this February as the girls at Oasis celebrated Valentine’s Day with a “Friendship Fair” full of joy, connection, and creativity! As part of our protective care programming, the fair was more than fun, it was intentional. Each house designed activities like card-writing, karaoke, target games, and bingo, building not only excitement but also unity and teamwork. The girls reflected on biblical friendship through the story of Jonathan and David, a powerful reminder that God values healthy, life-giving relationships.

Residential staff and the Tías (caregivers) came together to make the day extra special, creating a safe space where children could just be children, free to laugh, play, sing, and grow in community. One of the decorations read, “Life is more lovely with friends,” and the day truly brought that message to life. At Kids Alive, every moment like this reinforces our mission to create bonds that mend through love, joy, and belonging, because every child deserves friendship, healing, and a hopeful future.

HAITI

At Kids Alive Haiti, emotional healing is part of our everyday mission. Our psychologist, Holkens Camil, brings this to life through approaches like art therapy, offering kids a safe space to express their emotions through painting, puzzles, and creative play. Many of the children we serve have experienced deep trauma.

Holkens gently helps them externalise their pain and begin the slow but powerful journey toward healing. He also uses psychometric testing to evaluate each child's emotional and psychological needs, tailoring care to support long-term recovery.

This is the heart of our Justice That Heals model, responding to trauma with compassion and expertise.  As children find their voice and rebuild trust, we see lives transformed. Because at Kids Alive, healing is more than a goal, it's our calling. 

PERU

*Cecilia’s childhood began in the Peruvian jungle, but her journey was challenging. After her mother left an abusive situation, Cecilia moved to Lima to live with her aunt, hoping for a better life. Unfortunately, she faced difficulties and lacked the education and care she needed.

Everything changed when she arrived at the Kids Alive Peru Juniper Tree Residential Support Centre. Here, Cecilia found the love, education, counselling, and medical support every child deserves. “I receive affection and love,” she said, reflecting the transformation in her life.

Today, Cecilia is reunited with her paternal relatives, excelling in school, and has even won awards, including a swimming honour from the local mayor. She is no longer defined by hardship but is thriving and dreaming of a bright future. Her story is a testament to how Kids Alive helps children reclaim hope and dignity.

*Names changed for privacy.