The Jane Goodall Zoo by the Gaza Children Village

When the bombing forced people to leave, they left behind memories, homes, and the animals in the park. It was hard to leave behind the animals who had long been part of their lives. Some, like the foxes, wolves, lions, ostriches, guard dogs, cats, turtles, and monkeys, had to remain in the park. But others made the journey and migrated with them

: red and black baboons, gazelles, lion cubs, an eagle, American macaws, squirrels, Lulu dogs, and a colorful group of peacocks, poultry, and ornamental birds.

Many of these animals lost critical weight and required urgent care. To help them recover and to support our children’s emotional wellbeing, we began establishing a small zoo within our academy: The Jane Goodall Zoo by the Gaza Children Village.

This space offers more than refuge for the animals. It provides our children with comfort, purpose, and a chance to learn empathy and responsibility. Under the guidance of our team, the children now help feed, clean, and care for the animals.

What began as an act of rescue has become a living lesson in healing, kindness, and resilience for both the animals and the children who nurture them.