In the Zhari and Panjwai district of Kandahar province, a project funded by the Humanitarian Fund (HF) is making a significant impact on the lives of vulnerable children and their families. This initiative provides essential support to children visiting the clinic for health services. Every day, 15 to 20 children benefit from the Child-Friendly Space (CFS), where they can engage in play and learning activities in a safe and nurturing environment. Additionally, 3 to 5 children who require mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) receive tailored assistance from a trained psychosocial support (PSS) counsellor, ensuring their emotional and psychological well-being is addressed.

Each CFS is staffed by two dedicated facilitators and equipped with a variety of toys and games designed to promote the children's development and well-being. This initiative is not just a space for play; it is a vital part of the community’s health infrastructure, providing relief to families as they access critical health services.

Hamida*, a 40-year-old mother of seven, expressed her deep appreciation: “Thank you for creating this safe environment for our children. We feel much more at ease while waiting for our examination at the health centre, knowing that our children are safe, happy, and well cared for in the CFS.”

Maria*, a 28-year-old CFS facilitator with Save the Children, noted the centre’s positive impact: “The centre serves children aged 6 to 14, both boys and girls. Typically, 15 to 20 children attend the CFS daily, with 3 to 5 children receiving specialized mental health and psychosocial support. We see the difference this space makes in the lives of the children and their families.”