The Red Pencil has seen a vigorous expansion of activities in the first half of 2015, having partnered with different NGOs and carried out 7 unique humanitarian missions across 6 countries. The Red Pencil had missions in India with Tree of Hope Foundation to help children from low-income families with behavioral problems; in India with CanKids to provide art therapy sessions to children with cancer who face long-term hospitalization and heavy treatments; in Sri Lanka with CHARIS Singapore to reach out to neglected and HIV marginalized individuals of all ages; in Myanmar with Taunggyi Archdiocese to build up the self-esteem of poor and neglected children; in Thailand with Singapore-based RADION International to conduct clinical sessions with teens belonging to the Hmong community affected by discrimination, violence and abuse. The Red Pencil also collaborated with two independent art therapists in New Zealand in implementing the “Train the Trainer” programme that assists caregivers in overcoming their own distress from the Christchurch earthquake aftermath.

The devastating Nepal earthquakes in April and May 2015 that left behind casualties, fatalities and emotional damage prompted The Red Pencil to offer its help. Together with Foundation Audrey Jacobs, a team of 4 art therapists were deployed to Kathmandu, Nepal, with the aim of offering trauma relief services. During the 10 days from 22-31 May, the art therapists helped to:

• assess and determine effective therapeutic interventions for children affected by the recent natural disaster;

• support teachers and nuns in engaging children though a more therapeutic modality;

• promote self-care and emotional awareness in the community.

It was observed that therapeutic art making in a safe space allowed the victims to regain mastery and a sense of normalcy again. By expressing their feelings and thoughts through art expression, they could also start to make sense of the devastation around them in a safe and supported environment. As the children from the community came together to interact with one another in tented areas at the same time when schools were being suspended by the government, simple activities like playing games, making art, processing feelings and experiencing structure proved to be an effective path to healing.

The second half of 2015 will begin with brand new humanitarian missions in the Middle East and Europe with NGO partners that deal with human trafficking and conflict zones refugees. In Lebanon, The Red Pencil will work with the KAYANY Foundation to empower a community of Syrian refugees, children, parents and caregivers living in settlement camps; in Romania to carry out to help women who have been victims of human trafficking. There will also be two humanitarian missions to Cambodia; with Hagar International to help children and adults victims of human trafficking; with two joint NGOS – STEP (Solutions to end poverty) and PSE (Pour Un Sourire d’Enfant) to empower children, families and caregivers facing poverty, low education and domestic violence.

As always, we are very thankful to all, dedicated art therapists, supporters and sponsors, for their presence and contribution without which none of this would be possible.