When the COVID-19 pandemic created unprecedented emotional, relational, and spiritual challenges across Peru, Benah leaders collaborated with UNICEP (Unión de Iglesias Evangélicas del Perú) and an international team to design and deliver a culturally responsive psychoeducational program that equipped community volunteers to respond more effectively to the growing needs of families affected by the crisis. Over eight weeks, more than 400 participants—including community leaders, psychologists, educators, pastors, and volunteers—received practical training in trauma, grief and loss, psychological first aid, helping skills, and self-care, enabling them to better support individuals and families experiencing fear, isolation, bereavement, and uncertainty.
Beyond responding to an immediate crisis, the initiative strengthened the long-term capacity of local communities by equipping volunteers with practical, evidence-informed knowledge they could continue applying long after the pandemic. The project also included a comprehensive community mental health needs assessment that informed future educational initiatives and encouraged continued collaboration among community organizations, local leaders, and mental health professionals. This experience demonstrated the value of culturally responsive education, collaborative leadership, and sustainable capacity-building in helping communities build resilience during times of adversity.