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.
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.