[Original (April 8, 2026); Translated by K. Tanimoto/S. Yoshihara]
In November 2025, JVC held a psychosocial support session for staff and volunteers of our partner organization, Ard El Insan (AEI). This article follows “Psychosocial support for our partner organization (1) — Supporting those who care for others” and reports on the atmosphere of the session and shares voices from participants.
A two-day psychosocial support session for those who care for others
On a clear November weekend, the venue in Nuseirat, central Gaza, rang with the bright voices and joy of people meeting again after a long time apart. Over two days, 70 staff members and volunteers from AEI participated in the session, which was held in a rented venue. Since October 2023, these colleagues have continued to work with JVC under unimaginable conditions. The psychological burden they carry is immense. To create a space where they could set down some of that weight, we worked with local psychosocial specialists in Gaza to prepare a program combining psychosocial exercises and recreational activities.
During the session, participants took part in:
・Work to ease the emotional burden
・Practical stress coping methods for home and field work
・Activities to deepen communication among colleagues
Psychosocial support specialists who facilitated the session
AEI staff and volunteers participating in the session
What participants told us about the session’s importance
A member of our team also participated in the session and shared the atmosphere from the venue:
“All of the activities were a great success, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed taking part. The facilitators were excellent, and the venue suited both indoor and outdoor activities. During lunch, participants had time to talk with one another, and I heard many meaningful conversations.”
Their words reflected both the hardships of the past two years and how precious this day was to them.
Ms. S., AEI staff member
This day was truly necessary. I have an elderly mother, so even while the attacks continued, we couldn’t evacuate. There was simply no way to leave. Tanks came right up to our front door, and for days we lay low on the ground so we would not be detected by their surveillance devices. I am deeply grateful to JVC.
Ms. G., Volunteer (widow)
My mother-in-law blamed me for my husband’s death. She always said, “My son died because you sent him out to buy food.” For a year after losing my husband, I was in a very difficult psychological state. But today I feel better. I was reunited with my colleagues, and we spent a great time together. I am truly grateful.
Compared with when we met her during our activities last year, her expression was noticeably brighter.
Ms. H., Volunteer (breast cancer survivor)
Thank you for remembering us. I overcame cancer, and I am still alive. I am doing well. I am deeply grateful for this wonderful reunion.
Our team member added:
The event ran smoothly and achieved its objectives. We repeatedly heard participants say, “Please don’t forget us, JVC,” and “Thank you so much.” Hearing those words was deeply moving. It was a truly wonderful initiative.
What JVC can do
Since October 2023, Gaza has faced relentless attacks, and people have been pushed to the brink of famine. Even after the ceasefire, conditions remain dire. Throughout this, it is the people of Gaza themselves who continue to stand with those in need, listening and providing support. The wellbeing of those delivering assistance is often overlooked, yet it is essential to JVC’s work. JVC values the voices of local communities. Together with our local partners, we strive to identify the most needed support at any given moment and to deliver it quickly.
The session ran for only two days. Still, the smiles of AEI staff and volunteers and their repeated words of thanks showed how important the initiative was. Ideally, psychosocial support should be ongoing. However, due to funding constraints, we are unable to say when another session will be possible. JVC will continue supporting people in Gaza with our trusted local partners. We sincerely ask for your continued support for JVC and our partners in Gaza.
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