Syria Rises: A Future We Build Today
Launching the Rehabilitation of Maarrat al-Nu’man National Hospital and Surrounding Health Centers
On Sunday, June 29, 2025, a major milestone in Syria’s recovery journey was marked with the official inauguration of the rehabilitation works at Maarrat al-Nu’man National Hospital and five surrounding primary healthcare centers in Idlib. Organized by Hand in Hand for Aid and Development (HiHFAD), under the patronage of the Syrian Ministry of Health and with strategic support from the Aid Fund for Syria (AFS), the event celebrated a bold step toward restoring dignity, health, and hope to more than 700,000 people in northern Syria.
The initiative, part of the project titled “Restoring Healthcare Access for Returnees in Southern Idlib,” involves the rehabilitation and equipping of six facilities: Maarrat al-Nu’man, Saraqeb, Maasaran, Maar Dibsi, Afes, and Deir Sharqi. The intervention not only enhances infrastructure—including WASH systems, emergency units, and pediatric and obstetric departments—but also improves road access and creates cash-for-work opportunities, engaging local communities in the reconstruction effort.
A Ceremony Rooted in Resilience
The event was graced by high-level dignitaries, including:
- Dr. Musab Al-Ali, Syrian Minister of Health
- Mr. Mohammad Abdulrahman, Governor of Idlib
- Senior and field management teams of Hand in Hand for Aid and Development
- Ms. Ola Batta, Partnerships and Delivery Unit – Programme Lead at Aid Fund for Syria (AFS), along with a high-level delegation
- Mr. Adam Abdelmoula, UN Resident Coordinator in Syria
- Mr. Joseph Inganji, Head of OCHA Syria
- Dr. Cristina Piketty, Head of WHO Syria Office
- Ms. Mertxe Rellano, UNICEF Representative in Syria
Alongside a notable group of respected officials and representatives, humanitarian partners, media agencies, and community leaders also gathered to commemorate this transformative moment under the theme #SyriaRises: A Future We Build Today, and the slogan: “A National Step Toward Recovery and Prosperity.”
In his keynote remarks, Mr. Faddy Sahloul, HiHFAD’s Founder and CEO, stated:
“Our primary mission is to help displaced Syrians return home safely. With the collective will of government institutions, partners, and communities, reconstruction is not only possible—it is inevitable.”
Dr. Musab Al-Ali added:
“Syria is rising. Together, we will rebuild what has been destroyed—especially our healthcare system.”
From Response to Recovery
The event highlighted HiHFAD’s strategic shift from emergency response to early recovery. As Mr. Fadi Al-Dairi, HiHFAD’s Regional Director, noted:
“Our vision for the next phase is to build people—through capacity, dignity, and sustainable services.”
A side visit to HiHFAD’s warehouses at Bab al-Hawa offered insight into the organization’s advanced logistics and medical storage systems, featuring barcoding and quality assurance procedures that ensure efficiency and transparency in delivery.
This milestone would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of HiHFAD’s staff—across planning, logistics, media, and field operations. To everyone who worked behind the scenes:
You are the unseen heroes of Syria’s recovery journey.
As we reopen the doors of healthcare and hope in this region, we reaffirm our collective commitment: Together, we rise. Together, we rebuild.
A Statement on Israel’s Continued Aggression in Syria and the Immediate Need for Action
Damascus, March 28, 2025
Hand in Hand for Aid and Development condemns Israel’s attacks on Syria and its ongoing occupation, which threaten civilian lives, risk triggering new waves of internal and external displacement, and contribute to further instability in Syria and the wider region. These hostilities are further worsening an already precarious humanitarian situation in a country that has endured over thirteen years of conflict, economic collapse, and mass displacement.
Israel’s continued escalations are crippling Syria’s already devastated infrastructure, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis, displacing more people, and destabilizing the region as a whole. By persisting in its military aggression in Syria and beyond, Israel is intensifying tensions among Syrian, regional, and international actors, further diminishing the prospects for stability and peace.
We urge the international community to take immediate action to prevent further Israeli escalations, ensure the withdrawal from recently occupied territories in southern Syria, and protect civilians in accordance with international law. Israel must cease its violations, uphold its international obligations, and refrain from unilateral actions that fuel conflict. All efforts should be directed toward creating genuine conditions for peace rather than perpetuating cycles of violence, displacement, and instability.
Faddy Sahloul
CEO & Founder
Hand in Hand for Aid and Development
Statement on the Ceasefire and Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
Damascus, January 17, 2025
Hand in Hand for Aid and Development is profoundly heartened by the long-awaited cessation of hostilities in Gaza, which brings a critical opportunity to alleviate the immense suffering and embark on the path of reconstruction and recovery. The humanitarian crisis remains staggering, with healthcare systems devastated, families displaced in harsh winter conditions, and food and medical supplies in dangerously short supply.
Access to aid continues to face significant obstacles due to damaged infrastructure, restricted supply chains, and insecurity. HiHFAD urgently calls for full and unhindered humanitarian access to all parts of Gaza to ensure lifesaving aid reaches the most vulnerable, particularly women, children, and displaced families. It is imperative to respect international humanitarian principles and prioritize the delivery of assistance.
This moment of respite must not only provide relief but also lay the groundwork for sustainable recovery and peace. We urge our donors and partners to strengthen their support during this critical time, enabling the people of Gaza to rebuild their lives and restore dignity and hope.
Fadi Al Dairi
Regional Director
Hand in Hand for Aid and Development
Every two minutes, a woman dies during pregnancy or childbirth, leaving a void in families, communities, and societies (WHO). These deaths are preventable, yet they disproportionately impact vulnerable women whose needs are often overlooked. In response to this solvable crisis, the Every Pregnancy (For Mama movement), a groundbreaking global initiative that mobilizing communities, faith-based philanthropies, and charitable organizations across North America and the United Kingdom to ensure no mother or child is left behind.
As a dedicated partner in the EP Movement, Hand in Hand for Aid and Development (HiHFAD) is committed to addressing the staggering global maternal health crisis, where every two minutes, a woman dies from preventable complications related to pregnancy or childbirth. With 94% of maternal deaths occurring in low and lower middle-income countries and a global shortage of nearly one million midwives, HiHFAD joins this coalition of over 37 NGO partners to extend life-saving interventions and support. By working collaboratively to safeguard mothers and newborns—the irreplaceable foundation of every community—HiHFAD embodies the campaign’s mission to combat maternal mortality and ensure that vulnerable women worldwide have the chance to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
Strengthening Maternal and Child Health in Crisis-Affected Syria
In the heart of conflict-affected North Central Syria, the For Mama movement stands as a beacon of hope, addressing critical healthcare and nutritional needs for vulnerable women and children. This transformative initiative, spearheaded by Hand in Hand for Aid and Development (HiHFAD), exemplifies resilience, collaboration, and innovation in humanitarian aid
A Lifeline for Women and Children
At the forefront of this effort is the Tal Abyad Maternity and Pediatric Hospital, which serves as an indispensable hub for healthcare in the region. Operating in collaboration with Turkish and local health authorities, the hospital provides:
- Outpatient and Inpatient Care: Comprehensive maternal and child health services, including antenatal care (ANC), postnatal care (PNC), safe deliveries, pediatric consultations, and critical neonatal care.
- Specialized Support: Pediatric units equipped with incubators for low-weight infants and newborns requiring urgent care, and gynecological services catering to complex maternal health needs.
- Nutrition Interventions: Essential supplies like Plumpy’Nut, ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTF), and supplementary nutrition are distributed to combat malnutrition among children and nursing mothers.
This dual approach to healthcare and nutrition not only saves lives but fosters resilience within these underserved communities
Notable Achievements
- Impactful Outreach: As of Dec 31, 2024, over 1,164 mothers and 8,232 children under five benefitted from critical nutrition support across northwest of Syria.
- Capacity Enhancement: The hospital now conducts approximately 4,500 consultations monthly, supports 150 deliveries, and provides 24/7 pediatric and gynecological care.
- Sustainability: The campaign integrates long-term nutritional management strategies, including screening and treating malnutrition cases under the CMAM program.
Challenges Overcome
Operating in a conflict zone brings unique challenges: Geographical Isolation: Coordination with Turkish authorities, such as the Urfa Health Directorate, ensures continuous access for HiHFAD’s operational and health teams.
Human Resource Scarcity: HiHFAD has successfully secured pediatric and gynecological specialists to maintain high-quality, round-the-clock care.
These solutions exemplify the movement’s adaptability and dedication to overcoming obstacles in delivering life-saving interventions.
Advocacy and Communication: Amplifying the Message
The For Mama movement extends beyond healthcare delivery, leveraging strategic advocacy and communication to magnify its impact. Key efforts include:
- Engaging robustly on local and regional platforms to coordinate resources and policies.
- Delivering targeted social media engagement to highlight the campaign’s objectives and successes.
- Raising global awareness about the ongoing Syrian crisis and the pressing need for maternal and child healthcare.
The program’s structure demonstrates scalability, with a robust foundation that can be adapted to other regions facing similar challenges. With proper staffing, technical training, and community engagement, the model of Tal Abyad Hospital and its nutritional interventions could effectively transform healthcare access across underserved areas worldwide.
The For Mama Fund has positioned HiHFAD and its beneficiaries for long-term success. Strategic partnerships with international donors, faith communities, and Muslim philanthropic groups have bolstered the organization’s credibility and resources. Meanwhile, digital fundraising campaigns continue to secure sustainable support for future initiatives. By addressing immediate needs while building local capacities, HiHFAD is not only saving lives but empowering communities to reclaim their futures. The For Mama movement is a testament to what’s possible when compassion meets innovation, proving that even in the direst circumstances, hope can flourish.
HiHFAD Joins Every Pregnancy (Formerly For Mama): A New Chapter in Maternal and Newborn Health
In a bold step toward advancing global maternal and newborn health, and for the second year in a row Hand in Hand for Aid and Development (HiHFAD) is proud to announce its membership in the Every Pregnancy (EP) Alliance and Organization. This marks an exciting evolution from the widely recognized “For Mama” movement to a broader, more inclusive vision under the banner of @everypregnancy.
The For Mama initiative has made significant strides in improving maternal health outcomes and saving lives. Building on this legacy, Every Pregnancy aims to expand the mission, focusing on creating impactful partnerships and implementing life-saving interventions for mothers and babies worldwide.
This milestone announcement was made during the For Mama Partner Convening, hosted on December 9–10, 2024, at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation headquarters in Seattle. Representing Hand in Hand for Aid and Development (HiHFAD) was Mr. Moustafa Shikho, Senior Advocacy, Media, and Communications Coordinator. The convening brought together partners from across the globe to:
- Foster stronger relationships and open avenues for collaborative action.
- Explore innovative maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) interventions and campaign ideas for 2025 and beyond.
- Introduce the rebranded “Every Pregnancy” initiative alongside its updated strategic plan.
- Strategize for the Ramadan 2025 fundraising campaign, aiming to exceed previous records.
A Collaborative History of Impact
Since its inception in June 2023, the For Mama campaign has united over 30 Muslim philanthropies worldwide to support maternal and newborn health initiatives. Together, these organizations shaped the campaign’s focus, messaging, and branding, leveraging their unique networks to amplify the message.
Key highlights include:
- Global Reach: 37 charity partners across the US, UK, Türkiye, Pakistan, and beyond reached over 15 million people in 100+ countries via social media.
- Influence: More than 50 high-value influencers, including Paul Pogba and prominent Muslim scholars, helped spread awareness.
- Ramadan Success: The Ramadan 2024 campaign raised over $13 million, supported by a $3M boost from the Gates Foundation.
- Media Presence: Coverage in 200 outlets reached 97.4 million viewers.
Pioneering Achievements
The campaign marked several firsts:
- Muslim philanthropies collaborated across borders to advocate for maternal health.
- A fatwa was secured to make maternal health programs eligible for Zakat.
- The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation supported a community-driven campaign of this scale for the first time.
“This transition symbolizes our commitment to an even brighter future for maternal and newborn health, and our shared vision with Every Pregnancy will amplify our collective efforts, ensuring no mother or child is left behind.” said Mr. Shikho.
Stay tuned as we share updates, stories of impact, and ways you can support this movement. Together, we can build a world where every pregnancy is safe, and every mother and baby thrives.
Follow the journey with #ForMama, #EveryPregnancy, #MaternalHealth, and #NewbornHealth.
Photo Credit: Adeel Hassan (@abigdeel) ASH PHOTO & MEDIA
HiHFAD Achieves The ED Certification from NGOsource!
Hand in Hand for Aid and Development (HiHFAD) thrilled to announce that it has successfully received its Equivalency Determination (ED) certification from NGOsource, now officially recognized as equivalent to a U.S. Certified Public Charity!
This certification is opening up new opportunities for increased support from grantmakers worldwide and further enhances our credibility.
We are proud to now display the NGOsource certification badge on our website and eager to keep up the great work and continue striving for excellence!
About Equivalency Determination on File “Badge”: Click here
Find out more about us: Click here
HiHFAD Honored with Prestigious Certificate for Humanitarian Contributions in the Euphrates Shield Area
In a significant recognition of its humanitarian work, Hand in Hand for Aid and Development (HiHFAD) has been awarded a prestigious certificate by the Turkish Government for its outstanding efforts in northwest Syria’s Euphrates Shield region. The award ceremony took place during a major event hosted by the Gaziantep Governorship and the Provincial Directorate of National Education, which brought together leading civil society organizations focused on supporting vulnerable communities.
The event was attended by various NGOs and regional stakeholders, highlighting the vital role of collaboration in addressing the needs of communities impacted by conflict and displacement. HiHFAD was notably acknowledged for its unwavering commitment to providing education, health services, and humanitarian aid in one of the region’s most war-torn areas.
During the ceremony, Gaziantep’s Provincial Director of National Education delivered a heartfelt speech emphasizing HiHFAD’s transformative work in the Euphrates Shield area, where years of conflict have devastated the local population. HiHFAD’s continuous efforts, particularly in education and humanitarian relief, have brought new hope to those living in the region.
“The humanitarian and educational support provided by HiHFAD has become a beacon of hope for many in the region,” the Director remarked. “Their work is not only about addressing immediate needs but also about building a sustainable future for the affected communities.”
HiHFAD’s Operations Coordinator, Hasan Cemiloğlu, accepted the award on behalf of the organization. He highlighted that the certificate symbolizes the trust placed in HiHFAD by both local communities and regional authorities, reinforcing the organization’s long-standing dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of those affected by conflict.
“We are deeply honored by this recognition. It boosts the morale of our volunteers and reminds us of the responsibility we carry to continue our mission, this certificate reflects the trust placed in us, and we are committed to sustaining our ongoing projects throughout the region, especially in education, health services, and humanitarian assistance.” Cemiloğlu stated.
HiHFAD is more determined than ever to continue serving vulnerable populations, building on the trust and recognition received through this award. As the organization moves forward, this honor stands as a symbol of its ongoing journey toward a more compassionate and brighter future for all.
HiHFAD’s Short Film Officially Selected and Certified by WHO’s 5th Health for All Film Festival
Celebrating Global Recognition
We are thrilled to announce that Hand in Hand for Aid and Development’s short film, “Surviving Amid Crises and Disasters,” has been officially selected for the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 5th Health for All Film Festival (HAFF) in 2024. This prestigious recognition highlights our commitment to bringing critical humanitarian issues to the forefront and advocating for those affected by crises and disasters.
A Heartfelt Thank You from WHO
In a heartfelt message from the WHO, we were thanked for our participation and informed about the selection of our film among the top entries from over 1,000 submissions worldwide. The Director-General of WHO Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has signed a certificate of recognition, which we are proud to share as a testament to our dedication and the impact of our work. The WHO will continue to promote our film through their YouTube playlists, allowing a wider audience to witness the urgent needs and the swift humanitarian response depicted in our film.
Our film’s selection as a finalist in the HAFF, specifically in the Short Film category (1-3 minutes), is a significant achievement. This selection places our work among the top entries submitted by institutions, individuals, and content creators globally. We are honored to have our film included in WHO’s internal catalogue, where it will be available for various WHO offices to use in health education and promotion events.
About the Film: Surviving Amid Crises and Disasters
“Surviving Amid Crises and Disasters” centers around the harrowing experience of a person affected by the earthquake that struck Türkiye and Syria. The film brings to light the immediate humanitarian response within the healthcare sector and underscores the urgent requirements and dire consequences that followed the disaster. By focusing on this individual’s story, the film raises awareness about the broader impact on thousands of lives, including those with disabilities, and honors the memory of those who perished due to insufficient medical and logistical resources.
Teacher Ahmad’s Story
One of the poignant stories captured in our film is that of Ahmad, a teacher who lived through the earthquake in Jindires, northwestern Syria. Ahmad recounts the moments of terror he and his family and students faced during the disaster and the ongoing struggles of displacement a year later. His story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the continuing need for support and resources to aid those affected by such crises.
We are encouraged by this recognition and remain committed to producing impactful content that highlights critical health and humanitarian issues. We look forward to participating in future editions of the HAFF and continuing to share stories that need to be told. For more details about the HAFF and to watch our film, please visit the WHO’s official selection and awards page here.
Establishing A New Primary Healthcare Center in Southern Türkiye (Hilal Kent Camp 2)
This project promises to improve the healthcare and well-being of thousands of Syrian refugees in Hatay by providing accessible, comprehensive healthcare and psychosocial support.
As we move forward in our continuous efforts to support those impacted by the devastating earthquake that struck southern Türkiye last year, a promising development is taking shape on the Reyhanlı-Antakya road in Hatay. Here, the construction of a new health center at the “Hilal Kent 2” camp is underway, designed to provide essential primary healthcare services to the earthquake-affected families.
About the Project
The “Hilal Kent 2” camp is home to approximately 3,100 Syrian refugee families, totaling around 15,500 individuals who have been displaced by the earthquake. The new health center is projected to serve an estimated 17,000 people, ensuring that healthcare is accessible to both the camp residents and the surrounding community.
This project is a collaborative effort involving many esteemed parties including HiHFAD, the Turkish Ministry of Health in Hatay, the Governor of Hatay, and the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD). The timeline set for the completion of this essential infrastructure is by the end of June 2024.
Goals and Services Provided
The primary goal of this project is to construct a fully operational primary healthcare center that provides not only routine health services but also specialized medical care. The center will offer:
- Regular primary healthcare consultations
- Vaccination programs
- Surgical operations
- Dental care
- Radiology services
- Follow-ups for cancer cases
- 24/7 emergency and ambulance services.
Operating hours will be from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays, ensuring that healthcare is both accessible and timely.
Enhanced Support Through Psychosocial Services
Understanding the profound impact that displacement and trauma can have on mental health, the center will also focus on providing comprehensive psychosocial support. This includes:
- A dedicated area for mothers and children
- Mental health education
- Programs on healthy thinking
- Primary psychological assistance
- Recreational activities for children under five
These services are critical in building resilience among the refugee population, helping them to cope with the challenges they face and facilitating better integration into their new environment.
Phases of the Project
The project is divided into two main phases:
- Construction Phase: From January to June 2024, focusing on building and equipping the primary healthcare center.
- Operational Phase: From July to December 2024, during which psychosocial support services will be rolled out.
Partnership and Funding
The Turkish Health Directorate will provide the necessary medical staff to operate the center. Meanwhile, Hand in Hand for Aid and Development (HiHFAD) is committed to covering the costs associated with the psychosocial support services, including staffing and program implementation.
As construction progresses, the anticipation grows not only among the potential beneficiaries but also among all stakeholders involved. This health center is more than just a building; it is a beacon of hope, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and a crucial step towards healing and recovery for thousands of Syrian refugees in Hatay.
Stay tuned as we continue to update on the progress of this vital project, aiming to make a significant difference in the lives of many.