Al Bayyara (The Orchard)

Al-Bayyara [Outdoor Playgrounds] project is an expression of solidarity with the plight of children. It is an affirmation of their right to childhood. It is a minimal recognition of their humanity.

What is Al Bayyara?

The Al-Bayyara Project, launched in 2013 by WA, the Bank of Palestine, and the Basem and Muna Hishmeh Foundation, aims to provide safe, community-based outdoor playgrounds for Palestinian children. These playgrounds foster physical, social, and cognitive development, offering children a safe alternative to playing in streets and addressing risks like accidents and sedentary lifestyles.

Impact:

  • For Children: Encourages health, creativity, and social skills through play.

  • For Families: Provides communal spaces to connect and socialize.

  • For Communities: Reclaims neglected areas, fosters ownership, and enriches the local environment.

Achievements:

  • 19 playgrounds established, 9 under construction.

  • Plans to build 10 additional playgrounds annually, with hopes of inspiring similar projects nationwide.

Design:

  • Playgrounds use simple, sustainable designs incorporating recycled materials.

  • Features include active play zones, free play areas, and quiet spaces for families.

  • Safety, sanitation, and community ownership are key priorities.

Goal:
To restore Palestinian children’s right to safe play and foster vibrant community interactions.

 FAQs

  • Donations directly fund the construction and maintenance of safe, well-equipped playgrounds in marginalized Palestinian neighborhoods. This includes equipment, landscaping, and community engagement activities.

  • Yes! Sponsorship opportunities are available for individuals, organizations, and companies. Sponsors may have the playground named in their honor.

  • Donations made through registered organizations in eligible countries are tax-deductible. Please check with your local tax authorities or contact us for details.

  • We provide regular updates, including progress reports, photos, and testimonials from children and families benefiting from the project.

  • Absolutely. We welcome contributions of materials (e.g., recycled items for playgrounds) and skilled volunteers for construction, design, or maintenance tasks.

  • Playgrounds are built in marginalized urban and rural areas based on need, community readiness, and compliance with project criteria (e.g., land suitability, safety, accessibility).

  • No donation is too small! Every contribution helps us create safe play spaces for children.

  • Yes, we encourage donors to visit completed playgrounds to see the impact of their generosity. Please contact us to arrange a visit.