Atfaluna Society for Deaf Children, in partnership with Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP) is implementing a project titled “Emergency Response to people with hearing disabilities in north and south of Gaza Strip”. Launched on October 1, 2024, and running through March 31, 2025, the project addresses the audiological and mental health needs of Gaza's displaced families, both with and without disabilities through multi-sectoral interventions. These include audiological care, mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) services, and relief aid response. Through the project, hearing screenings will be conducted for 12,000 children and adults in the displacement shelters across the Gaza Strip, identifying those requiring further support and providing hearing aids to those in need. Speech therapy sessions will also be offered to children with speech disorders, improving their communication skills and supporting them to better integrate into household and community life.

The project’s interventions are warmly received by the beneficiaries. Bana, a 15-year-old, noting, “The medical team helped me discover a very important problem in my hearing when they came to the shelter and made the screening here.” Young Sarah, aged 4, also shared, “I love speech therapy sessions; I love learning new letters.”

With MAP’s support, Atfaluna is actively expanding this project, providing services that improve communication abilities and strengthen emotional resilience for children who face unique challenges. This initiative aligns with Atfaluna’s mission to empower individuals with disabilities and enhance their quality of life through inclusive, accessible healthcare and mental support.