A donor recently reached out to our nonprofit who was concerned with the growing numbers of refugees as the holiday period approached, and asked if he might direct his donation towards purchasing Christmas trees for Christian communities who were displaced. We reached out to our contact who supports the refugee camps across Mizoram, and are very happy to report that we made it happen! Please read the following report in which he details the life that these trees brought to these displaced communities during these very dark days, and how much in meant to children in particular.

This project report details the planning, implementation, and impact of the Christmas Tree Project conducted in Zyhno Refugee Camp during the Christmas season. The initiative aimed to provide a sense of joy, community, and normalcy to residents of the camp who have experienced displacement and hardship. With the approval of the Refugee Welcome Committee-RWC, the team shared the plan and the project for the children in the refugee camp. The team then went to the ground and met with the RWC and children.

The majority of the Chin people travelling towards the border between India and Myanmar, Mizoram State, India, who were forced to flee persecution and violence at the hands of the Myanmar military. About 500 refugees, mostly CDMers, reside in Zyhno Camp. Many people in Myanmar were also forced to flee within Myanmar and its neighbouring countries. Recognizing the importance of fostering a sense of community and providing emotional support, the Christmas Tree Project sought to bring a festive atmosphere to the camp, celebrating diversity and resilience.

Objectives:

To create a festive and inclusive atmosphere within the refugee camp.
To provide a platform for community engagement and collaboration.
To promote a sense of normalcy and joy during the holiday season.

The Christmas tree was bought and transported to the Zyhno refugee camp. Once there, it was decorated with the help of the kids and placed in the camp's makeshift church. About forty kids were able to present after the activity was over and group photos were taken.

Outcomes and Impact

1. Community Spirit:
- Through bringing kids together, encouraging sharing, and engaging in the activity, the Christmas Tree Project promoted a strong sense of community spirit.

2. Emotional Well-being:

-The project contributed to the emotional well-being of camp residents, offering a temporary escape from the challenges of refugee life.

- Children, in particular, experienced joy and excitement, creating lasting memories during a challenging period.

Conclusion: The Christmas Tree Project in Zyhno Refugee Camp successfully brought joy and a sense of community to residents during this Christmas season. By celebrating diversity and promoting collaboration, the project demonstrated the resilience and strength of the camp community. As the camp continues to face challenges, such initiatives play a crucial role in promoting social cohesion and well- being.

We would like to share the words of one camp elder upon seeing these trees come to our camp, through a foreign donor: “As a father and the head of my family, I have been having a lot of troubles in survival and supporting my family after this coup and living in this camp, so I can't stop being grateful for this Christmas tree. As we all know, children in particular have a lot of expectations and new things for this season when December arrives. However, we are living in this tent with no income, which only makes me cry because I am unable to fulfill my father's duty. However, when I observed my kids' delight and cherish while putting up the Christmas tree. We all felt joy and happiness from this Christmas tree, even though as a father I am unable to give my children any gifts. I sincerely want to thank the team and the donor for this project.”

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