The mother-child bond is essential in the early years of life, as it forms the basis for the emotional, cognitive and social development of young children. This affective relationship promotes security and trust, which are essential for balanced growth. However, distressing conditions such as domestic violence, illegality, poverty or marginalization can put this relationship at risk. In such fragile contexts, the bond can weaken, hindering the child's well-being and ability to develop healthy relationships in the future. Precisely in response to these problems, since 1997 the Ain Karim Association has been working, in agreement with the City of Rome, to help mothers in distress and minors removed from their families of origin. The Association runs three communities for mothers with children, two communities for boys and girls from 0 to 18 years old, and ten apartments for mothers leaving the communities. The women taken in have experienced difficult situations such as domestic violence, sexual exploitation, illegality, mental health problems, poverty, marginalization, or are in home detention. Therefore, the more important is the project we have decided to support, NAIM, a multifunctional space that can become a gathering point for community guests. What happens in space? Useful activities to concretely improve the lives of mothers and children, such as: school support and training for teenagers and mothers (computer courses, Italian courses for foreigners, flower training); recreational and cultural activities; legal counseling; orientation to employment and social services. The NAIM project comes to life in a small villa rented by the Association, which is located in the Tiburtino neighborhood near the host community. Four different areas have been set up here: a play area for children and adolescents; a training and counseling area for mothers; a common reception and cooking area; a green area. A multipurpose space in the area, offering play activities, counseling, training, and opportunities for gathering, is essential to improve the lives of young mothers in the community. These places promote mental and physical well-being by creating a safe and inclusive environment in which to develop parenting skills, receive support, and share experiences with other mothers. Social gathering is crucial to counteract isolation and strengthen the support network. Such spaces thus contribute to personal growth and improved prospects for mothers and their children. Details Location: Rome Association: Ain Karim Odv Beneficiaries: 28 mothers and 30-35 minors in the 0-18 age group Contribution: 74,000 euros Period: October 2023 - September 2024
