TURKEY

ilK Umut Dernegi

Ongoing conflict and oppressive regimes have brought millions of migrants and refugees inside Turkey's borders. First Hope Association (FHA), ilk Umut Dernegi, is working near the Turkish border where the largest numbers of Afghan refugees are gathered, many awaiting deportation.

Mobile Hygiene trailers

Mobile Hygiene Trailers developed by FHA are an innovative solution to providing essential services for individuals who do not have access to these facilities, such as refugees and disaster victims. They have also served as a hub of community activity and connection, especially for women and children, who come for hygiene, and distribution of food and clothing. With their versatility and mobility, the Mobile Hygiene Trailers are making a significant impact by providing essential services and community to people in crisis.

Disaster Response & Rebuilding

FHA teams were on the road within hours of the devastating earthquakes that hit south-eastern Turkey on February 6, 2023. Mobile Hygiene Trailers have been operating in Antakya and Gaziantep since day one and placing units within tent cities to serve people with disabilities is now a focus. Distribution of supplies in earthquake-affected areas continues. As higher temperatures arrive in the spring and summer, food storage and fans/air conditioning will be critical needs.

Mobile bakeries have been producing around 9,000 loaves of bread and buns daily and there are plans to expand to new regions. These bakeries and kitchens will not only provide meals but also jobs for local people.

FHA play tents are a joyful work and the number of these tents is increasing. School life has been very disrupted and these are safe places for children to not only play, but also catch up on studies and reading. Teams trained to help children work through their earthquake trauma are also here to interact with them.