RUTH’S HOUSE KIDS PLAY THERAPY ROOM

The Cause

Ruth's House is a pioneering grassroots organization that provides Afrocentric-based services to individuals and families within the African community who are facing family violence in Calgary. Our primary objective is to break the cycle of abuse by offering culturally appropriate support primarily to women and children fleeing domestic violence, while also attending to all members of the family, including men, and raising critical awareness about the unique challenges Black families face in the wider community.

We aim to create a vibrant Play Therapy Room for children aged 3 to 11 who are residing in the shelter. Many of these children are facing social, emotional, and behavioral challenges due to the impacts of family violence and experiences of abuse. Our vision is to transform the current TV room into a warm, welcoming space that not only promotes healing but also encourages self-expression and emotional growth.

The redesigned space will feature cheerful, colorful walls adorned with engaging decals that create an inviting atmosphere. We will equip the room with a diverse array of therapeutic toys, including play therapy puppets, a treasure box filled with imaginative resources, building blocks for creative construction, a sand tray for tactile exploration, and a variety of musical instruments. Additionally, visual imagery elements will be integrated throughout the room to stimulate creativity and enhance communication.

This initiative will provide approximately 150 children each year with the opportunity to learn to express their thoughts and feelings in healthy ways, understand the emotions of others, manage their own behaviors, and develop effective problem-solving skills. By fostering emotional resilience and social awareness, we aim to build healthier children and a stronger community.

Who Will it Benefit?

The primary beneficiaries of this initiative will be the children aged 3 to 11 residing in the shelter, many of whom are struggling with social, emotional, and behavioral challenges arising from experiences of family violence and abuse. By providing them with a dedicated Play Therapy Room, we aim to create a safe space where they can express themselves, explore their feelings, and begin the healing process.

In addition to the children, their families will benefit from this initiative as well. Healthier, emotionally resilient children contribute to a more supportive home environment, fostering stronger family bonds and improved communication. This ripple effect will extend to the broader community, as children equipped with the skills to navigate their emotions and relationships are more likely to become engaged, responsible citizens.

Moreover, staff and caregivers will gain valuable resources and tools through this program, enhancing their ability to support the children effectively. By equipping them with training and materials related to play therapy and emotional development, we aim to empower these adults in their critical roles, ensuring a cohesive support system for the children in our care. Ultimately, this initiative is not just about individual healing; it is about fostering a healthier community where everyone can thrive.