Thriving Through Play (TTP) is a three-year(2025-2028) initiative led by the Global Fund for Children with support from the LEGO Foundation. The project is being implemented through local organizations in Kenya and Uganda, with Similar Ground among the recipient partners.

The initiative focuses on supporting children aged 6 to 12 in refugee and host communities to enhance their mental health, resilience, and overall well-being through the power of play.

Core Objectives

• Provide children in refugee contexts with safe, playful spaces that strengthen their emotional resilience and social connections.

• Use play-based approaches art, sports, music, and creative games to help children heal, express themselves, and cope with challenges.

• Strengthen the capacity of local grassroots organizations by providing funding and technical support to deliver community-driven solutions.

• Foster environments where caregivers, peers, and community members actively contribute to children’s growth and protection.

Implementation

Over the three years, TTP invests directly in community-based organizations in Kenya and Uganda, ensuring that interventions are locally designed and context-specific. By working through trusted grassroots partners such as Similar Ground, the project ensures long-term sustainability, cultural relevance, and strong community ownership.

Why It Matters

Children affected by displacement and crisis often face disrupted schooling, trauma, and limited opportunities for normal childhood experiences. Thriving Through Play helps restore a sense of joy, safety, and hope. Through play, children rediscover their strengths, build friendships, and develop the coping skills needed to thrive despite adversity.