Life in the South Hebron Hills is difficult but RA Social worker Fatma helps people overcome numerous challenges in their lives, especially those that are most vulnerable–children, women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Fatma travels long distances to help people in many remote areas as her work is spread across many villages including Susya, Om El Kheir, Tuba, At-Tuwani, Sha’ab Al Botom, Al Habaleen, Almfaga’a, Almajaz, Junba, Zwedeen, and Zanota. Traveling to these areas is not easy and the road is not good, but Fatma is one of the only social workers in the area and her work is desperately needed.

In recent months, there have been growing incidents of violence in the South Hebron Hills which have taken a heavy psychological toll on people, especially on children. Children encounter difficulties in their movement to and from school and witness violence at the hands of settlers and the Israeli military. There are many instances of homes being raided in the middle of the night, with fathers being arrested in front of their children. The activities Fatma provides through her work offer children the opportunity to express themselves.

On September 21st, International Peace Day, Fatma organized an activity with children to make Pinwheels for Peace. She asked them what peace meant to them, guiding them as they put their views of peace on paper through drawing and writing. They created their Pinwheels for Peace; here's what the children shared: Peace is justice, safety, and being safe from settlers' attacks. This activity was a huge success and helped the children express themselves and relieve some of their anxiety.

Fatma has also been conducting workshops for children on how to keep themselves safe. Because the area is used as a Firing Zone by the Israeli Military, it is not uncommon for the children to find weapons such as used bullets, gas and sound bombs, etc. and they often pick them up. There have been incidents where children have hurt themselves with explosive material. Fatma educates children on how to avoid harm. In total, she works with 160 children in the area.

Fatma also works with women in the area and offers support in dealing with domestic violence. Talking about these domestic issues is considered taboo in the area. Therefore, Fatma is discreet in extending her support to women. Sometimes, she meets these women in groups, and other times, she conducts one on one counseling sessions with them. If needed, she seeks help from others such as psychologists and groups such as Doctors without Borders. She’s currently working with 124 women.

In addition, Fatma offers support to 12 elderly people. She meets them to understand their needs. She teaches them how to keep themselves busy at home. Sometimes, these activities are as simple as story-telling sessions with their grandchildren. Fatma also helps people with disabilities in the area. Many volunteers help Fatma in her work.

RA and Fatma would like to thank our donors for their support; your support is greatly needed for Fatma to be able to continue offering her services as a social worker. Please give generously to this project and help the people of South Hebron Hills.

Working for the welfare of the most vulnerable in the community