OpSAFE sessions are a group therapy program for children who have experienced traumatic events, life changes, stress, and war. The program is primarily aimed at children from Ukraine, but it can also be used in mixed-group settings. Please see the invitation in Ukrainian.

What is the Operation SAFE (OpSAFE) project?

OpSAFE is a group program for children who have experienced traumatic events, life changes, stress, or war. This program is based on Christian values, and we believe that Christ is a source of strength and support for every child. The program is primarily aimed at Ukrainian children, but it can also be used in mixed groups. 

The program was created by professionals and has been successfully implemented since 2014. The program is implemented in Poland by OM—an international missionary organization founded in 1957 that currently collaborates with Christian churches around the world. Our mission is to motivate and equip people to share God’s love with people all over the world.

Who are these classes for?

The OpSAFE program is designed for children aged 6 to 12 and is based on knowledge and experience in providing assistance in situations involving refugees, war, earthquakes, floods, and similar events. The goal of the sessions is to restore a sense of safety, promote integration, strengthen bonds, and alleviate symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress. Therefore, if there are children from Ukraine in your community, we strongly encourage you to join our initiative and implement this program with the children. We will provide all necessary support, teaching materials, and free training for your leaders and volunteers.

What are the classes like?

 The program consists of 5 sessions, each lasting 1.5 to 3.5 hours (depending on the format). 

Stations:

Each session includes 8 stations, each lasting 20 minutes (can be adjusted as needed):

• Opening
• Petrik's Adventures (A Picture Story)
• Games
• Creative Work
• Snack (prepared by the children themselves)
• The Bible (Stories from the New Testament)
• Heart 
• The Final

Main topics of the classes:

• I am not alone
• Everyone matters
• Follow and believe
• Be strong and brave
• You are very much loved

Program implementation options:

• Sunday school
• 5-day programs for children in the form of day camps (for example, during summer vacation)
• extra-curricular activities for children at church or other institutions (such as hostels or orphanages)

The OpSAFE project will help you effectively minister to children. The OM Association in Poland provides free training, teaching materials, and support for conducting classes.

Education:

The training is available in both online and in-person formats. In addition to practical information about the OpSAFE program, the training will cover the following topics:

• Post-traumatic stress
• First Psychological Aid for Children
• Child Protection Policy
• Organization of OpSAFE sessions
• Taking care of yourself and your team

We invite you to join the OpSAFE project and join us in our mission to improve children’s quality of life by making aid more effective.

How can I learn more? 

A flyer with a brief description of the program is attached.
If you are interested in the OpSAFE project, please contact us via Facebook or by phone.

Contact information:
Oksana: 729 300 095oksana.lonska@om.org 

“… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40)