KARAMA ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN

About us

KARAMA was established in 2002 as 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 surrounded by an environment of violence, devastation and poverty as well as fear and despair. The Palestinian economy is suffering tremendously from ongoing roadblocks, restrictions and curfews.

The current political situation has changed everybody's life, especially those of the children, and results in the loss of hope, happiness and peace. These children grow up without gardens, playgrounds, libraries or activity centers.

In the midst of these adverse circumstances Karama's center in Deheishe Refugee Camp provides a safe place for women, children and adolescents and offers different activities and support in many fields. Karama (Arabic for dignity) is working independently and is not affiliated with any political party or movement.

Karama's center is open seven days a week from 9 am to 6 pm, during holidaya from 1 pm to 6 pm, and during school times sometimes even longer. Focus is mainly aimed at children and adolescents between 10 and 24 years of age. The center's 110 square meters contain four rooms which can be used simultaneously for activities. Day by day up to 40 boys and girls take part in the center's activities. The activities are interactive and the tutors encourage the children to bring in ideas of their own.

Karama's activities are only limited by the lack of space and money . Karama is running all its activities with a monthly budget of barely more than 2,500 NIS (US $620) which includes expenses for rent, maintainence, electricity, water and telephone. Teachers and trainers not only have to work voluntarily, but often pay for some of the activities out of their own pockets.

The Karama Center exists and operates solely by the generous donations of it's supporters.