“We Are Our Mountains” Development Agency hosted a delegation from the Marseille City Hall on an official visit to the Republic of Armenia, led by First Deputy Mayor Michel Rubirola.
The delegation visited the “Intra” Mental Health Center to learn about the “Wings” rehabilitation program implemented by the “We Are Our Mountains” Development Agency. This comprehensive three-month rehabilitation program, financially supported by the French “Support Artsakh” Union, is designed for children forcibly displaced from Artsakh and their parents.
During the visit, delegation members toured the center, attended art therapy and drama therapy sessions, and spoke with Artsakh children who are beneficiaries of the “Wings” program. Members of the “We Are Our Mountains” Development Agency and French officials also met with parent beneficiaries of the program to inquire about their socio-psychological condition.
“Being a doctor by profession, I am deeply moved seeing everything that is being done here to help children and their families overcome trauma. I can imagine the feelings you have now, as you were forced to leave your home and land against your will. We share your concerns and appreciate your efforts to rebuild your lives,” said Deputy Mayor Michel Rubirola.
Of the 120,000 residents forcibly displaced from Artsakh in 2023, 30,000 were children who were deprived of food, medicine, and other essential resources during the blockade.
“Our children have lost their homes, friends, and everything familiar to them. The ‘Wings’ program helps them smile again and dream about the future. It’s difficult to describe in words what we experienced during the blockade and forced displacement, but we console ourselves that we are at least on Armenian soil, in this part of our homeland. Light has reappeared in our children’s eyes, and that is the most important thing for us,” emphasized Syuzanna Baghdasaryan, a parent beneficiary of the program.
Grigori Martirosyan, Director of the “We Are Our Mountains” Development Agency, noted that the program has already recorded tangible positive results.
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“Our goal is not only to provide psychological assistance but also to support these families in building the foundations of their new lives. The ‘Wings’ program takes a comprehensive approach, addressing the needs of both children and parents. This visit from the Marseille City Hall is important for us as it strengthens cooperation with the international community and shows that the problems of the people of Artsakh are not just the problems of the people of Artsakh. We are grateful to the people of France for supporting this initiative and standing by our side.”
About “We Are Our Mountains” Development Agency
The “We Are Our Mountains” Development Agency was founded in 2022 by Ruben Vardanyan and partners to implement development and support programs for Artsakh and Syunik.
