Children often are portrayed as highly resilient. Yet experts say that of all people affected by disaster, children are among the most emotionally vulnerable. Research shows that children often need intervention following a disaster to reduce trauma-related symptoms. LFCS offers a variety of programs specifically designed to meet the needs of children and youth impacted by disaster.
Camp Noah
Camp Noah is a weeklong, faith-based day camp offered for elementary-age children in grades K-6 who have experienced disaster. It is staffed by trained camp counselors and is supported by a local mental health professional. Built on the Vacation Bible School model, Camp Noah combines disaster recovery support for children with fun-filled recreation to form a unique and healing experience.
Camp Noah, a program created by Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota, is offered through the generous support of a variety of ecumenical and secular partners. The camp is offered at no cost to families who have been through a disaster. Click here for detailed informaiton about our Camp Noah program.
God’s Can Do Kids!
God’s Can Do Kids! is another program specifically designed for children ages 5 -13. Like Camp Noah, God’s Can Do Kids! has is designed to give disaster impacted children the tools to face life’s hardships by dealing with their fears, experiencing relief from stress, and connecting with God. But God’s Can Do Kids! is designed to be carried out during four sessions over a weekend. Each session consists of a skit, a Bible story lesson, and an art activity. The curriculum is complemented with supplemental crafts, games, and music. These activities help children deal with their fears by telling their stories or describing their experience through music and art, and making preparation for a future disaster.
Gearing Up-Renew U!
Gearing Up – Renew U! is designed for teenagers impacted by disaster. This strength-based program gives teens the tools they need to face life’s hardships during a one-day, four-session program. Bible stories, games and music help teens to tell their story, relieve stress, and prepare for the future. Practical skills are built as youth earn a certificate in handling tools and building materials as they develop preparedness plans.
All three programs have a mental health professional onsite to assist both children and teens that need more extensive assistance.
For more information on any of these children and youth programs contact us at (314)787-5100 or 866-326-LFCS. You may also send an e-mail to Disaster Response.
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