In May 2025, the OlamAid team carried out a targeted psychosocial support (PSS) initiative in Sedaví, one of the municipalities most heavily affected by last year’s catastrophic floods in Valencia. Over the course of three days, more than 300 children participated in a series of pedagogical theatre sessions designed to support emotional recovery and resilience. The initiative was led in collaboration with local partners Rafa and Ira.
This intervention is part of OlamAid’s broader emergency response program aimed at supporting communities impacted by natural disasters across Europe. The mission in Sedaví marked a significant step forward in reaching underserved areas with child-centered psychosocial services. Conducted in cooperation with ZWST and funded by Aktion Deutschland Hilft, the project represents OlamAid’s commitment to rapid, needs-based responses that prioritize inclusion, healing, and long-term impact.
Over three intensive days, OlamAid facilitated 15 pedagogical theatre sessions in Sedaví, engaging children through play, storytelling, and creative expression. The sessions provided a safe and inclusive space for participants to process their experiences, reconnect with peers, and rebuild a sense of normalcy following one of the worst natural disasters in recent European history.
The atmosphere throughout the program was warm and supportive. Many children who had previously shown signs of distress or withdrawal gradually began participating more actively. Educators and community members expressed deep gratitude for the initiative, describing it as both timely and transformative.
“This was the first time someone came just for the children,” shared one local teacher. “You could see the change on their faces - laughter and lightness returning, even if just for a while.”
This mission marked OlamAid as the first organization to deliver psychosocial support in Sedaví, setting a precedent for future programming in vulnerable, disaster-affected regions. In parallel with the fieldwork, the team also laid the groundwork for future collaboration with local NGOs. OlamAid will continue to expand its trauma-informed programming in Spain and beyond, with follow-up activities and new partnerships already under discussion.
