For children who have experienced abuse, severe neglect, and relational trauma, the environment where they are cared for can also play an important role in their healing journey. This need is at the heart of the project we have chosen to support. “Safe Spaces to Grow,” promoted by Associazione CAF, includes major maintenance work to make the outdoor areas of the “Comunità dei Piccoli”, managed by the same organization, safer and fully accessible. These spaces are an integral part of the children’s daily lives and of their therapeutic and educational journey. Our collaboration with Associazione CAF has developed over time: we previously supported the Teen Lab Day Education Center, dedicated to adolescents and their journey toward growth and independence. Associazione CAF is Italy’s first center dedicated to the care, treatment, and study of child abuse and maltreatment. It has been operating for more than 45 years and manages residential psychoeducational care communities as well as programs that support children and young adults on their path toward independence, following referrals from Social Services and the Juvenile Court. To date, the organization has welcomed and supported more than 1,200 children who have been removed from their families, with the aim of breaking the intergenerational cycle that can lead victims of violence to become violent or neglectful adults. The “Comunità dei Piccoli” currently welcomes 30 children between the ages of 3 and 12, who live in the “Elfi,” “Gnomi,” and “Folletti” residential communities. For them, outdoor spaces are more than just places for recreation: they are an essential part of their therapeutic and educational journey, providing settings for play, emotional regulation, educational observation, and relationship-building. The gradual deterioration of some of the facilities has created safety risks that require urgent action. The project therefore addresses a concrete need: ensuring that the spaces where the children live and take part in their daily activities are safe and fully usable. Our contribution will support part of the costs of the major maintenance work, helping make the outdoor areas of the “Comunità dei Piccoli” safe and accessible once again. Because a safe environment is essential and an integral part of clinical, educational, and relationship-based care. Details Location: Milan Association: Associazione CAF Beneficiaries: 30 children between the ages of 3 and 12 Contribution: up to €70,000 Period: June – September 2026
