Middle East (MNN) — In the Middle East and North Africa, millions of kids with disabilities often find themselves excluded and shunned. The SAT-7 KIDS show City of Stars, now entering its third season, helps kids to see their disabled neighbors in a whole new way.
Joe Willey with SAT-7 USA says, “It’s a program that helps children in the Middle East in North Africa understand that despite differences in outward appearance… the actors on this program are still children, just like the viewers. Really, the purpose is to show the biblical truth that everyone is made in God’s image and has value.”
Between 2 to 12 million people live with disabilities in Egypt alone. Very few have any access to the care and education they need to thrive.
A change of attitude
City of Stars takes place in a toy shop. The show stars two children: Romany, who was born with no limbs, and Viva, who was born with Down syndrome.
Willey says SAT-7 interviewed children before and after watching the show. Before watching City of Stars, some children said they did not want children with disabilities to attend their schools.
But after watching the show, Willey says, “Attitudes are changing. After seeing the program, now many children are welcoming those with special needs. They want to help, they’re standing up for children that are being bullied. One young girl told the story of a young man who was deaf. He was being bullied and she stood up for him.”
Pray these children would become wise and compassionate leaders in the Middle East and North Africa.
The third season of City of Stars will focus on the love of Jesus as described in 1 Corinthians 13. It will also take to the streets to interview more kids.
Header photo courtesy of SAT-7
