Iraq
Supporting Vulnerable Children Without Parental Care
Due to the ongoing impacts of war and economic hardship in our region, many children have lost one or both parents and lack the support and care of close family members. These children are often marginalized and face social stigma due to their circumstances. Our mission is to create a safe and nurturing environment where these children can thrive, learn, and feel valued and loved.
We are planning to launch a project in January 2025 that will provide meals three times a week and offer educational support in subjects such as Kurdish, Arabic, and Math. In addition to academic development, we aim to enrich these children’s lives by organizing outings to experience nature, explore historical landmarks, and enjoy recreational sites within the city.
Although we have already been involved in smaller activities—such as hosting picnics for the children, providing school supplies, and offering food support—we recognize there is much more to be done. We are committed to expanding our efforts to make a lasting impact on these children’s lives.
In the future, this team plans to provide relief and community development in more cities and with different strategies including
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food distribution and networking
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supporting family businesses
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continuing to develop a women’s center
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providing Zumba and Pilates classes for women
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building a guest house for visitors and volunteer teams
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establishing a soccer school for 12-17 year olds
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promoting education and providing scholarships
Yet another family is working in Iraqi Kurdistan working on three main projects focused on medical training, art and photography. They are providing patient care in local clinics, with free treatment, and training local health care professionals. Creating murals, dreaming of teaching locals how to paint and take photos through classes, and building meaningful relationships are all at work here!
Kurdistan Hiking and Climbing Program
In partnership with STEP, Millennium’s office in Kurdistan began a climbing program in 2021 for young people living in the Arbat Refugee Camp. In its second year, this program is not only providing opportunities for recreation, but also community; social and emotional learning; building peace between youth, and their confidence to overcome challenges.
“When we went to the mountains to climb, I wanted to climb, but I was scared. When I reached the bottom again, I cried with joy. After I tried climbing, I have hope and life… because it gives a person strength and courage, especially if you have people to encourage you.”
(Noor, translated from Arabic)
256 youth, 28 climbing trips
Like many other young women in her circumstances, Noor has had her strength chipped away due to many hardships. In the mountains, she has regained her strength and confidence, overcoming her fears and achieving goals.
She has started an apprenticeship with the Rock-Climbing Team and is excited to be growing in knowledge and skills so that she will be able to teach other young girls.