A year and a half ago, 9-year-old Youssef had a home, a school, and a family around him. Now, he’s in Jordan with his sister who is battling cancer, and his father remains in Gaza. He carries more than just memories; he carries trauma, grief, and questions no child should have to ask.

At Relief Across Borders, we know that survival isn’t just about food and shelter. It’s about healing. One of the simplest yet most powerful tools for a child’s recovery is play.

Studies in child psychology show that play-based therapy helps regulate stress hormones, rebuild neural pathways affected by trauma, and restore a child’s sense of safety and control. Physical activity, like cycling, releases endorphins that reduce anxiety and depression, while the rhythmic, repetitive motion of pedalling has a calming effect similar to rocking or swinging, which is known to regulate the vestibular system, an important factor in emotional balance.

Relief Across Borders has mobilised to provide essential support to Youssef and his family, coordinating psychological support in the form of play therapy to help Youssef cope with the trauma he has endured and allow him to learn healthy coping mechanisms that will enable him to integrate into a schooling system in the months to come.

We also support Youssef with basic humanitarian and medical needs including, but not limited to, dental work, food aid, and clothing.