“They did not approach us directly, but this is where our intuition comes in. When someone starts to appear distracted or leans on a family member for support, we reach out and offer support,” Head of the East Java Social Affairs Office, Restu Novi Widiani, said here on Saturday.
She explained that assistance for the families of the victims was focused on motivation and psychological support, without the need for medication or hospital referrals.
“These three families have reached a level of acceptance. They only need motivation, not medication. However, when they see the bodies, that may become the next stage,” she said.
Widiani noted that the trauma healing services involved social workers, volunteers from East Java Social Care, and clinical psychologists from Menur Hospital.
The office also coordinated with therapy communities to help reduce stress levels among the victims’ families.
In addition to emotional support, the team ensured the victims’ basic needs were met.
“Proper nutrition is important. We provide warm drinks and light snacks, as some are too grief-stricken to eat,” she added.
Meanwhile, the National Alms Agency (Baznas) has deployed health services, a public kitchen, and water supply facilities to support victims of the collapsed school.
Baznas' Head for Distribution and Empowerment, Saidah Sakwan, in a statement explained that medical response is crucial for victims suffering from injuries or shock.
“In addition to treating the injured, our team is also conducting routine health checks for the students to ensure their condition remains stable,” she said.
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Translator: Willi, Kenzu
Editor: Arie Novarina
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