THE Peace Centre has helped to facilitate messages of hope and kindness from America for survivors of last year’s Manchester Arena terrorist attack.
Sarah Dugger, a teacher at McKinley and Franklin elementary schools in North Bergen, New Jersey contacted the Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Peace Foundation explaining that her students wanted to get in touch.
A total of 22 people were killed in the aftermath of an Ariana Grande concert in May.
Terry O’Hara, who leads the Peace Foundation’s Survivors Assistance Network (SAN), which helps victims of terrorism cope and recover, suggested that the children send cards to the Peace Foundation so that they could be passed on to the families they are supporting.
He said: “Many of the children who sent cards were the same age as the young fans attending the Ariana Grande concert so the devastating events of that night struck a chord.
“This thoughtful act shows how much we have in common with others, and how reaching out with words of support and solidarity can make a difference to survivors dealing with the aftermath.”
Since the attack, the Peace Foundation has assisted over 700 individuals who were affected. So far, the charity has received cards from children from across six classes at McKinley and Franklin schools in New Jersey, displaying positive messages of peace and hope.
Teacher Ms Dugger said: “Caring and friendship can spread better than hate. When these students say “I am your friend” and “I care,” they mean it. Our hearts go out to the people of Manchester – we stand together with you.”
This year marks 25 years since the Warrington bomb, which led to the founding of the Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation, which works with schools in the UK and delivers a peace education programme for primary school children.
Small Steps for Peace helps children understand the causes of conflict and the impact and consequences of violence. Teachers and parents interested in this course should contact [email protected]
