Healing Garden for Survivors of Trauma
A Therapeutic Garden in Kurdistan-Iraq
The Healing Garden in Chamchamal, a town originally populated through forced resettlement in Kurdistan-Iraq, provides a unique space for survivors of trauma and persecution to engage in trauma therapy through a variety of programs. Built in response to local therapists, the garden offers occupational, horticultural, play, art and animal-assisted therapies. Locals may use its weaving loom, pottery kiln, and various agricultural products to earn their own living, essential for long-term recovery. The self-sufficient garden is maintained by local staff and utilizes traditional and sustainable clay building techniques and grey-water treatment.
The Healing Garden impresses with its simplicity and effectiveness. The cultivation of the garden by locals, who earn their living with it, and at the same time the use of traditional loam construction and sewage techniques impressively confirm the sustainable approach of this wonderful project!
WINNER STATEMENTHope is the most important thing. At the Healing Garden, we provide survivors of violence and trauma with programs to heal, and by winning the iF SOCIAL IMPACT PRIZE, it shows them that people far away are listening. That's what gives us hope.
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