Hi Friend,

452 million children are living in conflict zones. 14-year-old Samad* is one of them. 

When war broke out across Afghanistan, his family fled to Ukraine. Building a new life wasn’t easy – but they were together, and they were safe. Then, Russian military operations escalated, with devastating consequences for Samad and millions of other children in Ukraine.  

Just six months after fleeing Afghanistan, Samad was forced to leave his home, his friends and almost all of his belongings behind again. He’s coping with grief, anxiety and depression on top of hunger, violence and displacement. 

Friend, these burdens are far too big for any child to shoulder alone. Send a message to Congress: we must pass the MINDS Act to help children living in conflict zones heal from ongoing trauma. 

Kids like Samad watch war unfold in their own backyards. Many wake to the sound of bombs or gunshots to see their homes lost in the rubble. Their loved ones injured or killed.  

It’s not surprising that an estimated 22% of these children live with mental health disorders. What’s truly shocking is that less than 1% of global health funding has ever been designated to support them.  

The Mental Health in International Development and Humanitarian Settings (MINDS) Act is the first-ever piece of legislation to prioritize mental health support in U.S. foreign aid. We need your voice to ensure Congress passes it. 

Wars last for years, but the trauma they cause can last for generations. Urge your members of Congress today to pass the MINDS Act  – because struggling children can’t wait any longer for support.  

Thank you for being a voice for kids,