Chernobyl Childhood Illness Program/Ukraine

Under a USAID funded cooperative agreement, we directed and managed a three year, $4 million program addressing the medical and psychosocial effects on children of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.

The program screened at risk children for thyroid cancer, iron deficiency anemia, growth disorders, and psychosocial problems in the parts of Ukraine.  Our Technical advisors and collaborating institutions (the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, University of Pittsburgh Medical School, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, World Vision) provided consulting to the Ukrainian counterparts on the managing children's health who are found to have developed radiation related conditions.

• Developed training programs and operational practices for treating victims of the Iraqi invasion and occupation

• Created a capability to provide mental health services and support to persons in the target population

• Developed an effective public campaign to inform the population about post traumatic stress disorder and the support services that were available through the SDO

• Increased access to crisis intervention services for traumatized families, women, and children suffering from post traumatic stress disorder

• Developed a financial plan for the SDO that would promote and ensure its sustainability

• Identified international agencies to provide specialized counseling services and training to health providers

 
Displaced and Street Children Project
El Salvador

The USAID-funded Displaced and Street Children Project (PROCIPOTES) in El Salvador uses small grants and community participation to improve the health and well-being of displaced and street children. The target population are children and orphans who are having problems in school, are victims of abuse, or are isolated from a normal family environment. The Project addresses specific problems such as early pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, education, mental health, and preventive medicine.

The goals of the Project are to provide increased access to:

• Educational and recreational facilities

• Vocational training and employment opportunities

• Psychological support through group and individual counseling