Making a difference with a smile and a little magic

How play can help children carry on through humanitarian crises

Children need to have fun, especially when they’re going through life in a refugee camp, and Jamie Balfour-Paul is a magician helping children smile in Lebanon, as reported by BBC.

“These kids suffer a lot from the trauma of war and stress of the camp. And, what drives me is the smiles and the happiness on the faces of those kids,” says Jamie.

At Christian Children’s Fund of Canada (CCFC), we love to hear and share these stories. We believe in ensuring children go to school and have safe spaces (see above) to play and grow, supporting their development and mental health wherever they’re living.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

 

About Inspiring Stories

September 2025

Back to School: The Universal Power of Possibility...

CEO Fred Witteveen reflects on back-to-school season and how removing barriers to education gives every child the same sense of possibility.

September 2025

From Numbers to Hearts: My Journey as a Mother and...

Discover Noor’s inspiring journey as a mother and financial analyst, showing how numbers translate into life-changing impact for children and communities.

September 2025

Strong communities keep kids safe

Discover how Children Believe’s programs helped Daysi protect her children, strengthen her community, and build a brighter future.