Stories
December 30, 2024 • 2 min read
Miloura is a 15-year-old girl living in Martissant, located on the outskirts Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince. Following the loss of her father, Miloura now lives with her mother and sister in a vulnerable neighbourhood characterised by poverty, insecurity, and precariousness.
Children Affected by Conflict
When Miloura’s father passed away, the young teenager became quiet and withdrawn. Port-au-Prince is experiencing waves of intense gang violence and, out of fear for her daughter’s safety, Miloura’s mother was forced to limit her childrens’ movement outside of the home.
Growing up in a conflict-affected region can profoundly impact a child or teenager’s development. The constant threat of violence and instability disrupts daily routines. Limited freedom can also deprive teens of social interactions and recreational activities crucial for healthy development.
This lack of safety and stability can increase feelings of anxiety and isolation, making it challenging for young people to develop trust, confidence, and resilience. It also makes it harder to process grief, form healthy relationships, and imagine a hopeful future.
Child-Friendly Spaces
Last year, Miloura discovered the Espace Amis de Enfants (EAE). These Child-Friendly Spaces are designated safe areas established to support children affected by humanitarian crises, including disasters and conflict.
The programme is funded by USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance as part of the Addressing Multi-Sectoral Needs in the Metropolitan Area of Port-au-Prince (MAPP) project, implemented by GOAL in partnership with AVSI.
These spaces offer children opportunities to avail of psychosocial support and engage with their peers in a way that promotes mental well-being, healthly childhood development, and emotional resilience.
At first, Miloura felt nervous and hesitant. For weeks, she just silently observed the other children laughing and playing games. But eventually, the warmth and kindness of the staff coaxed Miloura out of her shell.
“Every time I go to the EAE, I feel an indescribable happiness,” Miloura said, smiling.
Children Reclaiming their Confidence
Child-friendly spaces offer children an opportunity to explore their identities, passions, and interests in a safe environment. “The EAE allowed me to discover myself, to push my limits and become active,” Miloura explained.
In just a few months, Miloura was able to forge close friendships with other girls her age, process her emotions, and build her resilience. Once a quiet, reserved girl, she has blossomed into a determined young woman, ready to face challenges head on, explore the world, and pursue her dreams.
Today, with newfound confidence and a hopeful gaze, she steps boldly into the future, eager to seize every opportunity that comes her way.
Miloura speaking to fellow programme participants at the Espace Amis de Enfants (EAE) on the outskirts of Port-au-Prince.
USAID
The US Agency for International Development (USAID) administers the US Foreign Assistance Program, providing economic and humanitarian assistance in more than 80 countries worldwide. This impact story is made possible by the generous support of the American people through USAID. The contents are the responsibility of GOAL and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the US Government.
