Following the success of the first stage of individuals treated for trauma with animal-assisted therapy, the activity of the Resilience Center has been expanded, and last week saw the opening of a new compound for group treatments of a number of children at a time using animal-assisted therapy. The premises includes two rocket-proofed rooms, each occupying 40 square meters, animal cages and an external center for dog-assisted therapy.
The center opened in 2015, using animal-assisted therapy to help residents cope with security threats and their implications. It was discovered that treating animals reduces stress levels, and contributes to the mental comfort, self-confidence, and the capability feeling of the patient. During treatments, the patient helps caring for animals, which provides him or her with a sense of empowerment.
Esti Goldwasser, manager of the Australian desk at the KKL-JNF Resource Development and External Relations Division: "This is an extremely important project. I believe that the development of the Resilience Center and the possibility of participating in group therapy will be of great help for children who live in the city in overcoming the trauma created by security threats. KKL-JNF will continue, to the best of its ability, to assist develop necessary and meaningful projects that strengthen communities facing ongoing security emergency situations. I congratulate the city of Sderot for this important project, and wish for strength and peace to its residents."