UNICEF, in collaboration with the China Social Work Academy, will provide mental health and psychosocial support services to children and families affected by the 6.8-magnitude earthquake in Dingri county, located in Xigaze city, southwest China's Xizang autonomous region.

The earthquake struck the county on the morning of Jan. 7, claiming 126 lives.

"When an earthquake strikes, children and pregnant women are often the most vulnerable and have specific needs," said UNICEF Representative to China Amakobe Sande. She emphasized UNICEF's commitment to supporting children's long-term recovery and ensuring they receive the necessary psychosocial care.

Responding swiftly, an emergency mental health relief team from the Institute of Psychology at the Chinese Academy of Sciences arrived in Dingri on Jan. 9. The team provided mental health services to children and rescue workers and plans to train local teachers as psychological counselors to ensure ongoing support for residents in need. 

In addition to psychosocial aid, UNICEF has supplied essential items for newborns, young children, and pregnant women in affected areas. The supplies include thousands of diapers, warm winter clothing for children, and quilts and jackets for pregnant women. The first shipment, which included over 400 sets of winter clothing and 65 newborn kits, arrived in Dingri on Jan. 15.

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