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Moeloco: Ethical Fashion Fighting Poverty

MoelocoDespite being a source of creativity and self-expression, the fashion industry has long been criticized for its problematic practices. This has especially been the case within the fast fashion sector. According to the United Nations Environmental Protection Agency (UNEP), the industry uses 93 billion cubic meters of water annually, enough water for 5 million people. The fast-paced, low-cost production of clothing perpetuates a host of environmental and social problems, including severe human rights violations. Workers in developing nations frequently experience hazardous working conditions, excessive hours and unfair pay, trapping them in cycles of poverty.

Impoverished communities suffer disproportionately from the environmental damage caused by unsustainable manufacturing practices. They are the least equipped to manage the fallout from pollution, water scarcity and the changing climate. Despite these challenges, the fashion industry is increasingly striving to mitigate its impact and promote ethical fashion to fight poverty. Initiatives like the United Nations (U.N.) Alliance for Sustainable Fashion and social enterprise Moeloco, lead sustainability programs worldwide.

Moeloco

Moeloco, founded by Kathy Wong, is an ethical footwear brand. They produce flip-flops with inspirational messages engraved on the soles, such as ‘Love’ and ‘Be Happy.’ While these messages help spread positivity, the impact of each purchase is even more far-reaching. For every pair of flip-flops sold, the organization donates a pair of locally crafted, closed-toe canvas shoes to impoverished children in India. In many regions across India, many children remain shoeless – this puts them at significant risk of contracting diseases from the ground below them, which may lead to amputation or death and prevent them from going to school due to health regulations enforced at schools. Without education, these children are more likely to remain trapped in the cycle of poverty.

Moeloco alleviates poverty by donating 400 shoes to impoverished children in India, collaborating with the Hope Foundation. This partnership supports local manufacturers who make the shoes, thereby creating local jobs and distributing the footwear. It aims to provide these children access to education and raise awareness about the impact of consumer spending. This initiative represents ethical fashion by directly linking purchases with tangible benefits for impoverished children, demonstrating how consumer choices can significantly alter lives.

Ethnotek

Another impactful brand tackling poverty in the fashion industry is Ethnotek. Founded by Jake Orak, Ethnotek collaborates with artisan communities in Guatemala, Ghana, Vietnam, Indonesia and India to produce beautifully crafted bags that preserve cultural heritage. These artisans use traditional techniques to create colorful, handcrafted textiles which are incorporated into their products. Ethnotek is unique in that it is dedicated to sustainability and fair trade. Rather than providing direct aid, the company guarantees that artisans receive fair wages and work in safe conditions by forming direct partnerships with them.

Since many of these craftspeople reside in rural areas with few job opportunities, selling their handmade goods on international marketplaces enables them to become financially independent. Since Ethnotek’s conception in 2007, the business has now partnered with more than 500 artisans across five countries to generate more than $10 million in revenue in 2024. This economic empowerment aligns with core principles of ethical fashion in fighting poverty as it uplifts impoverished communities through fair wages and employment opportunities. 

Fashion Impact Fund

The Fashion Impact Fund, an innovative program, leverages the fashion industry’s broad influence to foster social change. This nonprofit organization offers grants, training and employment opportunities to female-led projects emphasizing environmental sustainability, poverty alleviation and education. It supports female designers, artists and entrepreneurs to cultivate a more diverse and socially conscious fashion industry. The fund’s core objective is to equip women from underprivileged backgrounds with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed in the fashion sector.

Through mentorship, skill development and financial support, this nonprofit helps women establish sustainable careers, lifting them and their families out of poverty. The organization also provides funding for initiatives tackling climate change and environmental degradation – issues disproportionately impacting underprivileged areas. The work of the Fashion Impact Fund contributes to the broader movement of ethical fashion fighting poverty, with a focus on addressing discrimination and lessening the gender-based wealth gap via economic inclusion.

Looking Ahead

These initiatives demonstrate the fashion industry’s potential to drive significant social change. By promoting fair wages, education and economic empowerment, these organizations prove that fashion can potentially serve as a powerful tool for long-term poverty reduction. As consumers increasingly recognize the influence of their purchases, the potential for ethical fashion to fight poverty could grow.

– Viola Cuthbertson

Viola is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Humanitarian Crisis in Syria

Humanitarian Crisis in SyriaSyrians urgently need assistance as more than 16 million residents struggle with homelessness, food insecurity, dilapidated infrastructure and inadequate water and sanitation. The United Nations (U.N.) reports that at least 90% of the population lives below the poverty line, placing Syria among the nations facing severe economic challenges. The country’s economic instability is so prolonged that it defies conventional poverty rankings. Compounding these economic issues, changing weather patterns has wreaked havoc, with floods and earthquakes destroying infrastructure and disrupting essential services. As international aid wanes—distracted by global crisّّّis—the burden increasingly falls on government initiatives and nonprofit organizations (NGOs) to provide critical support.

Natural Disasters

Natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods and climate-induced storms are worsening the economic struggles of the impoverished, leading to increased displacement. On Feb. 6, 2023, Northern and Western Syria were struck by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake. This disaster affected more than 8 million people, with a death toll surpassing 50,000. The earthquake also impacted Syrian refugees and humanitarian organizations near the Turkey-Syria border.

More than 10,000 buildings have been destroyed, further damaging Syria’s already crumbling infrastructure. According to the Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment (RDNA), direct physical damages amounted to $5 billion, with an estimated $8 billion required for recovery and reconstruction across six governorates. Additionally, heavy rainfall and flash flooding have disrupted the lives of thousands in northern Syria, adversely affecting more than 40 refugee camps in the Idlib and Aleppo governorates. These floods destroyed camps, closed roads and inundated agricultural lands, exacerbating food insecurity and prolonging the humanitarian crisis in Syria.

Infrastructure

The humanitarian crisis in Syria has severely limited access to water for many residents. As reported by the U.N. in 2022, 52% of Syrians do not have access to piped water, forcing them to rely on alternative sources such as rivers, wells and springs. The deterioration of the water infrastructure results from the ongoing Syrian civil war. Currently, more than 7 million displaced Syrians reside in overcrowded camps and shelters that are either partially or fully damaged, offering inadequate conditions for daily life. In northern Syria, more than 2 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) live in last-resort sites, which are areas with conditions that pose significant health and safety risks.

Government forces have attacked civilian water infrastructure, damaging nearly two-thirds of Syria’s water treatment plants, half of its pumping stations and a third of all water towers. An immense drought in the northeastern, southern and eastern regions of Syria is crippling the agricultural sector, pushing many displaced Syrians into food deprivation. The drought has also decreased water levels, compelling farmers to use contaminated alternatives such as raw sewage, which spreads diseases and heightens health risks.

Food Insecurity in Syria

The humanitarian crisis in Syria has driven up food prices, with prolonged conflict, rising production costs and droughts contributing to widespread food insecurity that affects more than 12 million Syrians—more than half the population. This food insecurity is causing additional problems; millions of children are at risk of malnutrition and acute malnutrition, which has already stunted the growth of more than 600,000 children in the country. As of 2023, more than 3 million children needed nutritional assistance. Additionally, a recent cholera outbreak is placing unprecedented strain on Syria’s health services.

World Vision, a Christian relief organization, has found that female-headed households in Syria suffer most from food insecurity, which often leads to gender-based violence, abuse and exploitation. Meanwhile, the World Food Program, which has aided more than three million people in Syria, recently ended its main aid initiative. This termination has left many who relied on food distribution without alternatives. Cuts were necessary due to rising global economic challenges, donor fatigue and declining funding. Northeast Syria, a region already struggling with these issues, will likely see the most significant effects of the WFP’s reductions, exacerbating extreme poverty among residents.

The City of Aleppo and Government Initiatives

Aleppo, the capital of the Aleppo governorate and Syria’s most populated city stands at the epicenter of the nation’s economic struggles. The humanitarian crisis in Syria spans issues from food insecurity to the changing climate. However, the most significant driver of increased poverty rates remains the prolonged civil war. This conflict, involving the Syrian government with its allies against various militia groups, including ISIS and the Free Syrian Army, has severely impacted civilians. They endure the brunt of the conflict with damaged health facilities, failing water and energy infrastructure and widespread food shortages.

The International Labour Organization (ILO), funded by Japan, has launched a new initiative in partnership with Syria. This project aims to create jobs for Syrians in Aleppo and support the country’s infrastructure recovery efforts. The focus areas include debris removal, sidewalk rehabilitation and repairs to the sewage and stormwater networks in Aleppo’s Kadi Askar district.

The Syrian Recovery Trust Fund (SRTF) is dedicated to enhancing water infrastructure in Aleppo. It is advancing a project to improve the health environment and living conditions across Syria. This initiative includes constructing a water tank, rehabilitating and extending water supply networks and building a new water storage reservoir. These ongoing efforts aim to improve water access for more than 75,000 residents.

IRC and Oxfam’s Efforts in Syria

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has actively supported various aspects of Syria’s humanitarian crisis. After the 2023 earthquake, the IRC provided affected Syrian communities with essential items such as blankets, feminine products and hygiene supplies. Additionally, the organization supports crucial health services and has implemented classes, counseling and protection services for children in camps for displaced residents and other affected areas. To address the humanitarian crisis in Syria, more than 1,000 staff members are on the ground providing emergency cash and food assistance. They operate clinics and mobile teams offering life-saving support and work to bolster households’ economic stability through job training, apprenticeships and small business support.

Oxfam, a global organization dedicated to ending inequality and poverty, has been working diligently to provide Syrians with clean water, access to materials and proper hygiene practices. The organization has restored water infrastructure and improved sewage systems to enhance the quality of water and public health in Syria. To combat the humanitarian crisis, Oxfam has distributed thousands of hygiene kits, provided cash support and supplied seeds to farmers across several governorates.

Looking Ahead

As Syria continues to face compounding crises, from natural disasters to economic instability, the role of humanitarian aid remains critical. Organizations such as the International Rescue Committee and Oxfam are providing life-saving support, focusing on essential needs like clean water, food assistance and health care. However, the scale of the challenges requires sustained support to help the millions affected by conflict and displacement.

– Immanuel Wiggins

Immanuel is based in Jackson, MI, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Student Mission Trips Making Differences in Poor Communities

Student Mission Trips Making Differences in Poor Communities Poverty exists all around the world, with an estimated 700 million people living in extreme poverty – meaning they survive on less than $2.15 a day. In response, there are plenty of nonprofit organizations (NGOs) that are working to alleviate poverty, such as Oxfam International, a confederation of 19 organizations that work in 90 countries. However, not only adults and professionals who are fighting against poverty. High school and college students are also doing their share of helping poor communities around the world, specifically through student mission trips. There are organizations throughout the United States (U.S.) that provide numerous student mission trips – long-term and short-term – for students to sign up and join.

ExperienceMission

ExperienceMission has missions for middle school, high school, college and young adults, emphasizing their goal to make relationships with the people in poor countries. For example, one former missionary wrote how the missionaries “were able to make these very emotional connections with the Kosovar Albanians as they ate together and helped work on homes in the towns of Semetisht and Suva Reka. the personal touch in the aftermath of such tragedy (the Kosovo war) was powerful.”  On the same mission trip, a businesswoman gave some money to the people there, but “she was overwhelmed by what had meant the most to the local people. It had been the simple fact that she had come to Kosovo along with the money.”

ExperienceMission emphasizes the personal touch of these mission trips, believing in the power of relationships and kindness to the people in poverty. In addition, it practically helps the communities. Donations are used to build and rebuild homes or establish English language schools so that people can get jobs as translators. The missionaries also help youth practice English and support orphanages and dental clinics. The practical work extends to assisting greenhouses, working on farms, helping students with homework, cooking, packing food parcels, playing games with students and sorting storage units.

Mission Discovery

Mission Discovery is another organization that focuses on short-term missions. For its medical mission trips, its volunteers work in daily medical clinics and can also educate school students on health. On medical mission trips, the missionaries also give out water filters and grocery items to people in the community, as Mission Discovery did in Antigua and Guatemala. For its regular mission trips, such as in Bulembu and Eswatini, short-term missionaries work to improve the lives of orphans. They renovated an abandoned mining town to create a self-sustaining community where orphans can live in peace. To do so, the volunteers help with construction projects tutor Bulembu’s students and create sports and school clubs to enrich their education.

LeaderTreks Youth Ministry

LeaderTreks Youth Ministry is an organization that makes youth groups wanting to go on mission trips easier by helping plan the logistics. The youth groups go to underprivileged communities within the U.S. and assist them with learning English, as well as helping build, paint, clean and cook for these people. The volunteers deliver care packages that contain clothes and hygiene products, which they distribute to the community and also travel with mobile clinics to places with no health care. It also has a program called Global Aid Network (GAiN) working in the country of Benin. According to UNICEF, only 67.4% of people in Benin have access to drinking water. GAiN works to provide access to clean drinking water by drilling wells and installing pumps and concrete pads. On top of that, GAiN volunteers help with community development programs to encourage and educate residents on sanitation.

Looking Ahead

These organizations that support youth mission trips focus on Christian youths and young adults who are dedicated to sharing their faith in impoverished communities. In addition to spreading their faith, these missions strive to enhance the living standards in these areas through various initiatives. Not only do professionals and NGOs make a difference worldwide; but students also effect positive change.

– Hannah Chang

Hannah Chang is based in Philadelphia, PA, USA and focuses on Good News, Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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4 Charities Operating in Jamaica 

Charities Operating in Jamaica 
Jamaica is a diverse and culturally rich island known for its music and natural attractions. It is the third-largest island in the Caribbean and has a population of about 2.5 million. However, COVID-19, changing weather patterns and other governmental issues have resulted in environmental, educational and economic gaps. Post-pandemic, Jamaica’s economy has taken a hit. Tourism, which is a large part of the Jamaican economy, has plummeted and Jamaica’s poverty rate increased by 4%. This article features four impactful charities operating in Jamaica that strive to help resolve these issues and improve the quality of life on the island.

Children First Agency

One of the major charities operating in Jamaica is Children’s First Agency, which is a nonprofit charity that supports children, mobilizes them to overcome poverty and gives them educational tools to improve their lives. Its mission is to allow children who may not have had equal opportunities to realize their full potential. More than 190,000 children in Jamaica live in poverty, with rural areas having higher poverty rates, while 85% of children experience violent discipline and 30% are born to mothers under 17. This charity aims to assist families that are not sufficiently supported by their environment.

The nonprofit has two main projects: the Youth Wellness Center and the Bashy Bus. The Youth Wellness Center focuses on educating children on their healthcare needs by giving them knowledge that helps them make informed decisions. The center offers education and vocational skills training, job placements and support services. The Bashy Bus is a bus that provides reproductive health information and resources to teenagers. It is the first mobile bus service for reproductive health.

Issa Trust Foundation

Couples Resorts founded the Issa Trust Foundation in 2005 with the mission to promote the well-being of Jamaican people. The organization strives to assist with the needs of children and families, advocating for improved medicine and education. Besides fostering a sense of community and support for the impoverished, the charity has a focus on pediatric care.

Issa Trust Foundation’s 10th pediatric medical initiative showed more than 1,000 children being treated with more than 41 volunteers taking part for treatments. The charity also offers free health lectures, as well as providing eye care and glasses for children in need. A pharmacist intern Shanique Powell is an example of a Jamaican-born citizen returning to Jamaica to counsel and help needy families. Powell says, “Coming back has reminded me of where I am from.” This opportunity to reconnect with her culture and improve upon her home country would not have been possible without the Issa Trust Foundation and her story is only one in many.

Food for the Poor

Food for the Poor is a global charity that strives to assist impoverished families by providing food, housing, clean water and more. In Jamaica, 17.1% of citizens live below the poverty line and 7% of children under 5 suffer from malnutrition. Although the charity is global, Jamaica was the first country in their initiative in 1982. Since then, FFTP has remained steadfast in helping relieve Jamaica’s poverty. In 2022, it implemented two income-generating projects, provided 68 computers to children in Angel of Hope’s Children Homes, provided a rainwater harvesting system in a school and more. In 2024, the charity gave more than 32.4 million meals to Jamaica and contributed to the building and expansion of more than 322 schools.

Smile a While Foundation

Smile a While Foundation is a nonprofit organization geared towards providing therapy for special needs children in Jamaica. The founder, Joanne Oates, was inspired to help children who may not be able to get the support they need. In Jamaica, 162,800 people reported having a self-identified mental illness. Children under 14 make up 21% of this group. However, developing countries often don’t have the resources or infrastructure to provide sufficient help.

Between 76% – 85% of people in these countries with serious mental illness do not receive the help they need. The Jamaican government has tried to reduce the reliance on institutional care, use more licensed professionals, and emphasize community care. Smile a While Foundation is an example of a progressive step forward. In 2023, the charity opened a splinting clinic, recruited new therapists with specializations in autism, and more.

Looking Ahead

These four charities operating in Jamaica are essential contributors to alleviating Jamaica’s economic, educational and environmental issues. With the support of donations and volunteers and the vision of these nonprofit leaders, Jamaica will continue to improve and strive for a better island for all its citizens.

– Sofia Hattiangadi

Sofia is based in New York City, NY, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Start2FinishUTM is Making a Difference

Start2FinishUTMChild poverty is a pressing issue in Canada, with more than one million children living in conditions that put them at risk of lifelong adverse effects. In 2021, Canada ranked 19th out of 39 countries in terms of child well-being, with poverty rates worsening over the years. The consequences of this poverty are profound, affecting children’s physical health, mental well-being and academic success. For many, the lack of adequate resources, nutrition and educational support makes it incredibly challenging to break out of the cycle of poverty. Education, a key pathway to a better future, is often compromised for these children, leading to long-term disadvantages that can last a lifetime.

Start2Finish is a Canadian charity committed to breaking this cycle of child poverty by offering continuous educational support to at-risk children. Its mission is clear: to empower children from low-income families to succeed in school and life by nurturing their minds, bodies and social health. Through programs like the Running and Reading Clubs and Backpack Program, Start2Finish provides children with the tools they need to thrive academically and socially in their school environment.

The Start2Finish Journey

Start2Finish was founded in 2000 with a vision to eliminate the impact of child poverty in Canada. Since its inception, the organization has made a significant impact across the country, serving thousands of children each year. With a network of 700 volunteers in 70 communities, Start2Finish offers 120 sessions each week

The Running and Reading Clubs, one of Start2Finish’s flagship programs, are after-school initiatives that combine physical activity with literacy education. These clubs operate in more than 50 communities across Canada, providing children with a safe and supportive environment where they can improve their reading skills, build confidence and develop a love for physical activity.

The Backpack Program, another cornerstone of Start2Finish’s efforts, provides children in Canada with key school supplies at the beginning of the academic year. This initiative ensures that children from low-income families have the resources they need to start the school year on the right foot. Together, these programs are designed to address the multiple dimensions of poverty that affect children’s ability to succeed in school and life.

Between 2022 and 2023, Start2Finish distributed 12,000 books to children, worked alongside 37 organizations and accomplished much more. Start2Finish also provides several other initiatives, including the Brainworx program, the Junior Coach program and many more.

Start2FinishUTM: Expanding the Reach

In February 2024, a group of dedicated students at the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM) recognized the importance of Start2Finish’s work and decided to bring its mission closer to home. Led by co-presidents Kathy Dang and Karl Aquino, Start2FinishUTM was established as a student group with the goal of expanding the reach and impact of Start2Finish through volunteer recruitment and community engagement.

The idea for Start2FinishUTM was born during UTM’s Alternative Reading Week, a program that connects students with community organizations for experiential learning opportunities. Dang and Aquino, both passionate about giving back to the community, were inspired by Start2Finish’s mission and saw a chance to make a difference. “We really love their work and we really appreciate what they do as a nonprofit organization. So we, Start2FinishUTM, we’re basically helping them expand their volunteer outreach initiatives to help the organization,” Aquino explained.

One of the challenges facing Start2Finish in recent years has been a decline in volunteer numbers, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of the organization’s long-time volunteers did not return, creating a gap that needed to be filled. Start2FinishUTM aims to address this challenge by recruiting new volunteers from the UTM student body and the broader Mississauga community.

Building a Strong Volunteer Network

To achieve its goals, Start2FinishUTM has outlined a comprehensive plan for volunteer recruitment and community engagement. The group plans to host interactive workshops, information sessions and charity events throughout the academic year. “We’re planning on tabling in September at the Clubs Fair, where we can outreach to first-year and second-year students and also during Orientation Week,” Dang shared. These events will provide students with the opportunity to learn more about Start2Finish and how they can get involved.

In addition to these outreach efforts, Start2FinishUTM is also exploring fundraising initiatives to support Start2Finish’s programs directly. “We’re in the middle of brainstorming so many different ideas that we could do as fundraising events,” Aquino said. The group hopes that these efforts will not only provide financial support to Start2Finish but also raise awareness about the issue of child poverty in the community.

A Personal Motivation

For both Dang and Aquino, their involvement with Start2FinishUTM is deeply personal. Dang, who is studying Digital Enterprise Management and Linguistics and Aquino, who is pursuing a degree in Comparative Physiology and Biology for Health Science, both have a strong desire to give back to their community. “It’s very close to my heart because I love children,” Aquino said. Coming from an Asian family where academics is one of the biggest things, providing these services for children might be small, but for me, very important,” he added.

Dang echoed this sentiment, sharing her own connection to the cause. “Our mission is to break the cycle of child poverty by providing ongoing educational support to at-risk children. My main motivation was to assist in this cause, supporting and helping children that may be struggling just as I may have once experienced in my personal life as well. And that personal connection really hits straight home to my heart,” said Dang.

Looking Ahead

As Start2FinishUTM moves forward, the group is focused on building a strong community of volunteers and supporters who share its passion for education and social change. “We’re just starting and we’re a very fresh and new student group. Hopefully in the next few years, more students will know about it and our impact on the community will snowball from there,” Aquino said.

Start2Finish UTM is more than just a student group; it is a movement dedicated to breaking the cycle of child poverty through education and empowerment. By partnering with Start2Finish, the students at UTM are not only contributing to a vital cause but also building a legacy of service and social responsibility that will inspire future generations.

– Jennifer Lee

Jennifer is based in Toronto, ON, Canada and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Bahar Charity: Combating Child Poverty in Iran

Child Poverty in IranChild poverty remains a pressing issue in Iran, affecting the lives of countless children and families. Material poverty is particularly prevalent in Iran, with significant disparities in access to essential services and resources, particularly in rural areas. Around 30% of the Iranian population lives in poverty, which leaves many children at risk. Rural children, particularly girls, face greater barriers to accessing education, health care and adequate nutrition, creating a cycle of poverty that is difficult to break.

This widespread poverty has far-reaching implications, including limited access to quality education, health care and social services, all of which are critical for the healthy development of children. Against this backdrop, organizations like Bahar Charity, a student-run group at the University of Toronto, Canada, have stepped in to make a tangible difference in the lives of disadvantaged children in Iran.

Bahar Charity

Founded in 2016, Bahar Charity was created by a group of friends in response to a natural disaster in Iran. This event spurred them to take action. They created a platform through which they could provide meaningful support to people back in their home country. As Nafiseh Ghoroghchian, the current president of Bahar Charity, explains, “Our vision is to build bridges between the North American, especially the Iranian community and Iran… to keep awareness of the challenges back home and provide help where we can.”

The charity aims to connect the Iranian diaspora in Canada, particularly the students and alums at the University of Toronto, with communities in Iran to support children who are struggling with poverty. The organization strives to foster a sense of solidarity and empathy among young Iranian Canadians while providing tangible assistance to those in need.

Partnerships and Collaborations

One of the most significant partnerships that Bahar Charity has developed is with Paradise Charity. This registered Canadian charity has been operating since 2001. Paradise Charity collaborates with nine nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) across different provinces in Iran, identifying underprivileged children and connecting them with sponsors in Canada. This partnership has allowed Bahar Charity to reach a wider audience and bring more support to the children in need.

Through this collaboration, Bahar Charity has established a child sponsorship program. It enables donors to sponsor a child in Iran for a minimum of $30 per month. The funds are primarily used to support the child’s education but can also be allocated for other necessities, such as health care, therapy or even household needs like repairing essential appliances. As of now, Bahar Charity has successfully gathered around 40 sponsors for approximately 60 children, ensuring that they receive continuous support for their education and well-being.

Key Initiatives and Programs

Bahar Charity has developed several initiatives to bridge the gap between the Iranian community in Canada and the underprivileged communities in Iran. Some of the key programs include:

  • Child Sponsorship Program: In collaboration with Paradise Charity, Bahar Charity has facilitated a sponsorship program that provides financial aid to underprivileged children. This program focuses on supporting children who have lost a parent or come from low-income families. It ensures they have access to education and basic needs. Indeed, the charity has managed to sponsor 60 children through the contributions of around 40 sponsors, creating a sustainable source of support for these children.
  • Fundraising Campaigns: Bahar Charity has organized multiple fundraising events to provide emergency relief in times of crisis. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, it raised funds to supply oxygen tanks to low-income provinces in Iran suffering from a lack of medical supplies. Similarly, it conducted fundraising activities to support families affected by floods and other natural disasters in Iran.
  • Educational and Cultural Initiatives: Bahar Charity regularly hosts seminars, discussions and cultural events to raise awareness about the issues faced by children in Iran. These events serve to educate the broader community at the University of Toronto about Iranian culture. Additionally, they highlight the challenges faced by disadvantaged communities. Notably, it organized a photographic exhibition featuring photographs taken by underprivileged children in Iran. The event was a success, showcasing the artistic talents of the children while raising funds for their support.
  • Advocacy and Awareness: Beyond financial support, Bahar Charity is committed to raising awareness about child poverty in Iran and mobilizing support from the Iranian-Canadian community. It organizes seminars, talks and documentary screenings to foster discussions on relevant social issues, such as homelessness and education inequality in Iran. These events are open to both Iranian and non-Iranian audiences, helping to build a more inclusive community at the University of Toronto.

The Future of Child Poverty in Iran

Bahar Charity has made remarkable progress since its inception. It has built a solid partnership with Paradise Charity, established successful fundraising campaigns and developed programs that directly benefit children in need. Looking ahead, it aims to increase its volunteer base and seek more collaborations with other organizations. With more hands-on projects, such as workshops and one-on-one tutoring sessions for Iranian children, it hopes to make a more direct and meaningful impact.

– Jennifer Lee

Jennifer is based in Toronto, ON, Canada and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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4 Charities Combating Child Poverty in Brazil

Child Poverty in BrazilBrazil has the second-highest economy in the Americas. Despite the country having a whopping gross domestic product (GDP) range of $2.17 trillion as of 2023, it is also home to millions of children living in poverty. Vast disparities in wealth and access to essential resources persist, leaving many children and teenagers alike impoverished. Fortunately, several charities are working tirelessly to address these challenges and improve the lives of the most vulnerable children in Brazil. 

ChildFund

Since 1966, ChildFund has been helping impoverished children in Brazil, focusing on improving the lives of children and families in disadvantaged areas. The organization’s efforts center on education, health care and protecting children from violence and exploitation. ChildFund also aims to train community members to monitor water quality and has partnered with multiple programs to implement measures that promote safe water drinking—one of these partnerships accomplished providing clean water to more than 24,000 people in Brazil’s Jequitinhonha Valley.

One of ChildFund’s key initiatives in Brazil is its focus on education and skills training. The organization provides educational support to children, ensuring access to quality schooling and essential resources for success. This includes reducing violence in classrooms and socioeducational activities promoting leadership. Additionally, ChildFund Brazil empowered 8,200 children through its “Taking Care of the First Years of Life” program.

Children of Bahia

Children of Bahia is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children in one of Brazil’s most impoverished regions, the state of Bahia. Established in 2005, the organization provides food, education and health care to children living in extreme poverty. By working directly with local communities, Children of Bahia addresses the needs of the children it serves and provides targeted support where needed most.

The organization also supports projects where children receive meals, access necessary health care and participate in extracurricular activities like the Wednesday Club. In addition to providing direct support, Children of Bahia strengthens families and communities by offering workshops and community development programs. This approach ensures children get the support they need to thrive at home and within their communities.

GlobalGiving

GlobalGiving is an international crowdfunding platform connecting donors with grassroots projects worldwide, including Brazil. The platform supports various initiatives to combat child poverty in Brazil through its platform. These projects are run by local organizations that deeply understand the communities they serve, ensuring that donations are used effectively to create lasting change.

In Brazil, GlobalGiving supports projects that provide education, health care and necessities to needy children. For example, some projects focus on improving rural communities’ access to clean water and sanitation. In contrast, others provide scholarships and educational resources to children who would otherwise be unable to attend school. The organization’s model allows donors to choose specific projects they want to support, providing transparency and ensuring that their contributions make a direct impact.

Compassion International

Compassion International is a well-known organization that works to alleviate child poverty through its child sponsorship programs. The organization provides children access to education, health care and spiritual guidance in Brazil. Compassion’s sponsorship programs connect donors with individual children. It provides them with the financial support needed to attend school, receive medical care and participate in extracurricular activities.

The organization has also served 223 churches to create safe and nurturing environments for the children, for which approximately 69,000 have received aid. In addition to meeting basic needs, Compassion’s programs emphasize the importance of emotional and spiritual well-being. They offer counseling and support to help children overcome the challenges they face.

Conclusion on Charities in Brazil

The work of charities such as ChildFund, Children of Bahia, GlobalGiving and Compassion International demonstrates that the power of collective action. These organizations have sufficiently reduced child poverty in Brazil via education, health care, food and water supply and sponsoring.

– Christian Core

Christian is based in Princeville, HI, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How the British Red Cross Helps People in the Sahel

People in the SahelThe Sahel is a region in the continent of Africa that includes countries such as Chad, Burkina Faso, Niger and Mauritania. The Sahel’s climate is semi-arid, meaning it experiences extended periods of dryness in the summer and rainy weather in the winter. As result of these weather conditions, drought and flooding are common and have a detrimental impact on the lives of people across the region, leading to the destruction of crops and food shortages.

When certain foods become scarce, prices soar, leaving people unable to afford the food they need to survive. As of December 2023, more than 150 million people across the Sahel found themselves unable to access an adequate amount of food and this number is sure to grow if changing climate conditions continue to influence weather conditions within the region. Spurred on by the desperate situation, the British Red Cross works tirelessly across the Sahel to improve living conditions for needy people.

Help for Communities

Through its Sahel Hunger Prevention Program, the British Red Cross helps people in the Sahel by establishing groups for young mothers to receive information on maintaining their health and their babies through good personal hygiene and nutrition. These groups also allow young mothers to develop their livelihoods, as the Red Cross provides them with seed funding to help cover the costs of setting up a small business and any personal expenses the women may have.

This scheme positively impacts women in the Sahel as it enables them to have financial independence and be strong, valued members of the community who can advocate for their own health and that of the region as a whole.

Support for Migrants

Migrants from nearby regions often travel to the Sahel for a better life. However, the transition to their new home is not always easy. The British Red Cross helps people in the Sahel by setting up service areas where migrants can access care for their physical and psychological health and necessities such as food and personal care items.

In addition to this, the British Red Cross provides support to migrants who have experienced distressing situations such as human trafficking and gender-based violence. To strengthen the relationship between migrants and natives, the organization helps people in the Sahel by holding sports games, allowing all community members to interact and share positive experiences.

Financial Assistance

Another way the British Red Cross helps people in the Sahel is by providing financial assistance through grants that enable those in need to access food, education and health care. In 2021, the charity organization facilitated cash distributions to 1,000 vulnerable families in Chad and Mauritania. As well as being beneficial on a personal level, this scheme also benefits the economy of the Sahel because if people are more able to afford food, then markets within the nation will continue to thrive. As a result, jobs will be created.

Furthermore, the British Red Cross helps people in the Sahel by supporting farmers and livestock owners in preparing for extreme weather conditions such as drought and flash flooding. Collaborating with the Niger Red Cross, it identifies early warning signs of impending severe weather. Then, it develops action plans to address these challenges. These plans include using drought-resistant seeds and providing financial assistance to farmers and their families if harvests are insufficient.

Summary

The British Red Cross supports the Sahel region through a range of initiatives. It empowers women with knowledge and resources to improve their lives and start businesses, aid migrants with health care and community integration and boost the local economy by providing financial assistance to families. The organization also helps farmers adapt to extreme weather conditions, enhancing crop resilience and providing financial aid during poor harvests. Overall, its efforts have significantly improved life in the Sahel, with hopes for continued positive impact.

– Sue-Joyce Headon

Sue-Joyce is based in Liverpool, UK and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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WeCare: Italian NGO Influencing a Young Generation to Volunteer

WeCareStopping to recognize humanitarian efforts can highlight how, despite ongoing poverty, positive progress is being made. One such example is WeCare, a nonprofit organization based in Italy. It focuses on volunteering projects in South America and Africa, supporting children, families and communities facing extreme poverty.

The nongovernmental organization (NGO) crafts trips that are brilliantly organized, fun, heartwarming and extremely beneficial to the local areas it operates in. When not operating abroad, WeCare continues organizing various charity endeavors, working mainly in Rome and Milan to provide food packs and mental health support to up to 200 families in need.

Ongoing Projects

WeCare currently operates in Ecuador, Rwanda, Cameroon, Argentina and Peru. In each of these countries, the volunteering projects are based in remote destinations with low quality of life and where help is most needed. Groups range from 30 to 80 volunteers and focus largely on building schools, houses and recreational centers for children and families.

For example, its recurring project in Rwanda takes place in Kibaya, one of the most impoverished rural districts of the country. Volunteers work on supporting the only school in the area and improving its infrastructure, facilities and canteen. The projects are very successful and often dozens of houses, playgrounds and classrooms can be built in only a few weeks.

It’s inspiring to see how so much change and improvement can be brought to a community, especially in relation to the well-being of children. This can be seen through WeCare’s large Instagram platform, where it regularly shares videos of the progress made, testifying to the incredible help it carries out.

Influencing a Younger Generation

An important part of WeCare’s identity is that volunteers undergo a team-building experience connected to a religious and spiritual reflection of themselves, learning how to give and become better people as a whole. What is most incredible about this initiative is its impact on younger volunteers. WeCare welcomes volunteers above 40 years old, but it mainly works with teenagers and young adults.

It challenges volunteers, forcing them to cooperate and forge a team bond outside their comfort zones. The result is that these teenagers witness a journey that not only supports vulnerable communities in need but creates long-lasting change by forging them into supportive, reflective and kind human beings.

Impact

WeCare has become a reference point for many families and individuals in countries and regions where it operates. Since its inception, the organization has supported more than 1,350 families. It has also welcomed more than 700 volunteers, giving people the opportunity to contribute to the global fight against poverty and make a meaningful difference in vulnerable communities in Africa and South America.

– Grace Sammartini

Grace is based in Rome, Italy and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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How BOMA Is Building Climate Resilience in Africa’s Drylands

BOMAIn the Samburu region of Kenya, Pamela Lenolnyenje is one of the thousands of nomadic people living in/around the Kirisia Forest. Many such people live in extreme poverty partly due to rising temperatures and the collapse of fragile local ecosystems. However, due to financial training and a $175 grant provided by BOMA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending poverty and mitigating the effects of adverse weather, Lenolnyenje has since gained an income from managing a tree nursery while setting up her shop to sell produce. Likewise, due to intervention by BOMA, destructive land management practices have fallen considerably among the local community.

This is just one example of the work BOMA is doing to combat both environmental degradation and extreme poverty in Africa’s drylands. By combining education with access to capital, BOMA has sought to help vulnerable people escape the trap of climate-induced poverty by improving climate resilience. Refugees, in particular, have formed a primary target group, with sub-Saharan Africa hosting more than a quarter of the world’s refugee population.

The Rural Entrepreneur Access Project

The organization’s Rural Entrepreneur Access Project (REAP) strategy has been key to helping vulnerable populations in this way. Through this strategy, BOMA maps the key barriers to overcoming extreme poverty for pastoral families before implementing a series of interventions, including conditional cash transfers and financial training, for two years. However, due to the unique challenges facing Africa’s drylands, a more specialized “Green REAP” strategy is now used to tackle the twin crises of environmental collapse and extreme poverty.

The Green Reap Project

While environmental issues may appear of secondary concern to those facing extreme poverty, the sustainable management of scarce resources and fragile ecosystems can, in fact, considerably reduce poverty levels. Improving communities’ resilience to the impacts of changing climatic conditions, flood control, water filtration and other issues is crucial for sustainable development. Thus, BOMA, alongside its partners, provides funding and training to help people set up small, environmentally-friendly enterprises, which also help to conserve local ecosystems, such as the tree nursery discussed earlier.

One example of this Green REAP approach in action is the LIFT project in Northern Kenya, established in 2023. The project aims to improve opportunities for 15,600 women, young people and refugees by helping these people build and sustain 3,650 small enterprises. Of these 15,600 LIFT participants, approximately 30% of them come from in and around the Kakuma Refugee Camp and Kalobeyei Refugee Settlement, thus underlining BOMA’s commitment to refugees.

Impact

A 2016 study found that BOMA’s model resulted in a 147% increase in income for participants, alongside a 14,000% increase in savings and a 63% decrease in the number of children going to bed hungry. The Green REAP pilot scheme similarly indicated that 60% of participants shifted away from destructive practices such as charcoal harvesting, demonstrating Green REAP’s impact on climate resilience.

Final Remark

Ultimately, BOMA’s estimates indicate that more than 93,000 people in Kenya will benefit directly or indirectly from the LIFT project in the next two years. However, as the earth’s average temperature continues to ravage the drylands of Africa and trap many in positions of extreme poverty, the need for programs like this remains as high as ever. Thus, only through the incredible work of charities like BOMA can extreme poverty truly be eliminated from the African continent.

– Ben Evans

Ben is based in Abbots Langley, Hertfordshire, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr