Karama Palestine

Karama Palestine is a newly established non-governmental organization situated in Deheishe Refugee Camp near the West Bank city of Bethlehem. Since the outbreak of the second Intifada in September 2000 the inhabitants of the camp are - just like their compatriots in other refugee camps in the greater region - surrounded by an environment of violence and hatred, devastation and poverty as well as fear and despair. The Palestinian economy, already suffering tremendously from the ongoing roadblockades, restrictions and curfews, is about to break down. As a result of the Intifada Israel has tightened up the situation. The policy of eliminating potential enemies of the Israeli state but actually killing civilians when those actions are carried out, the destruction of houses and the siege of whole cities and areas is now part of the daily Palestinian life. In these adverse circumstances Karama's center in Deheishe Refugee Camp could well be considered an oasis which provides a safe place for women, children and adolescents offering them different activities and supporting them in many fields. Karama (Arabic for dignity) is working independently and is not affiliated with any political party or movement. Karama has established partnerships with different organizations. Karama's center is open seven days a week from 9 am to 6 pm during holidays and from 1 pm to 6 pm whilst schooltime - sometimes even longer. The focus is mainly aimed at children between 10 and 14 years and adolescents up to 24 years of age. On an area of 110 square meters there are four rooms which can be used simultaneously for activities. Day by day up to 40 children, boys and girls, are taking part in the center's activities. Yet, the children are not "consuming" the activities in a passive manner, but the tutors stimulate them to bring in their own ideas and to organize those activities which they desire themselves.

External links

* [http://www.karama.org Karama Palestine]