Uncategorized Archives - Noor Relief Fund (NRF) https://www.nrf.org.uk Be the Change Thu, 11 Jan 2024 12:37:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.4 https://www.nrf.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Uncategorized Archives - Noor Relief Fund (NRF) https://www.nrf.org.uk 32 32 Aid in the Digital Age: Disaster Relief Efforts https://www.nrf.org.uk/aid-in-the-digital-age-disaster-relief-humanitarian-efforts-and-the-tech-revolution/ https://www.nrf.org.uk/aid-in-the-digital-age-disaster-relief-humanitarian-efforts-and-the-tech-revolution/#comments Thu, 11 Jan 2024 12:20:00 +0000 https://www.nrf.org.uk/?p=17291 In a world plagued by natural disasters, armed conflicts, and public health emergencies, the importance of disaster relief and humanitarian aid cannot be overstated. These two intertwined concepts play a critical role in alleviating the suffering of people affected by various crises and disasters, from earthquakes and floods to war zones and disease outbreaks. In […]

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In a world plagued by natural disasters, armed conflicts, and public health emergencies, the importance of disaster relief and humanitarian aid cannot be overstated. These two intertwined concepts play a critical role in alleviating the suffering of people affected by various crises and disasters, from earthquakes and floods to war zones and disease outbreaks. In this article, we will delve into the world of disaster relief and humanitarian aid, exploring their significance, the organizations involved, and the challenges they face. 

Key facts on Disaster Relief
What is Disaster Relief? 

Disaster relief refers to the efforts made to assist individuals and communities affected by natural or man-made disasters. These disasters can include earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, wildfires, tsunamis, and more. The primary goal of disaster relief is to provide immediate assistance, such as food, water, shelter, and medical care, to those who have been impacted. The importance of rapid response cannot be understated, as it can mean the difference between life and death in many cases. 

Key Elements of Disaster Relief: 

  1. Assessment: One of the first steps in disaster relief is assessing the extent of the damage and the immediate needs of affected populations. This assessment helps relief organizations prioritize their efforts. 
  1. Logistics: Coordinating the delivery of aid supplies and personnel to the affected areas is a logistical challenge. Effective logistics are essential for a successful relief operation. 
  1. Distribution: Aid items must be distributed efficiently and equitably to ensure that everyone in need receives help. 
  1. Medical Assistance: In the aftermath of disasters, medical care is often in high demand. Mobile medical teams and field hospitals are set up to provide care to the injured. 
Disaster Hotspots
The Role of Humanitarian Aid 

Humanitarian aid is a broader concept that encompasses not only disaster relief but also assistance provided in conflict zones, refugee crises, and other situations where people’s lives and well-being are at risk. Humanitarian aid organizations work to protect human rights, reduce suffering, and promote dignity in the face of adversity. 

Key Elements of Humanitarian Aid: 

  1. Neutrality: Humanitarian aid organizations are neutral and impartial. They do not take sides in conflicts and provide assistance solely based on need. 
  1. Independence: Humanitarian aid organizations maintain their independence from political, economic, or military interests, ensuring their primary focus is on saving lives and alleviating suffering. 
  1. Humanity: The core principle of humanitarian aid is a commitment to preserving human life, dignity, and the well-being of individuals affected by crises. 
The Organizations Behind Relief and Aid 

Numerous organizations are at the forefront of disaster relief and humanitarian aid efforts. These organizations range from government agencies to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international bodies. Here are a few prominent entities: 

1. The United Nations (UN) 

The United Nations has various specialized agencies and programs, including UNICEF, the World Food Programme (WFP), and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). These organizations work tirelessly to provide aid in disaster-stricken regions and conflict zones. 

2. International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement 

The Red Cross and Red Crescent societies are present in almost every country and play a significant role in disaster response. They are known for their emblematic work in providing medical care and support to affected populations. 

3. Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) 

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is a medical humanitarian organization that provides medical care in conflict zones and disaster-affected regions. They often work in challenging and dangerous environments to reach those in need.  

4. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) 

Many NGOs, such as Save the Children, CARE, and Oxfam, are deeply involved in disaster relief and humanitarian aid. They provide essential services, from food distribution to clean water and healthcare. 

Technology in Disaster Relief
Challenges in Disaster Relief and Humanitarian Aid 

While the efforts of these organizations are commendable, the field of disaster relief and humanitarian aid is not without its challenges: 

1. Funding Shortages 

Relief and aid organizations often struggle with inadequate funding, limiting their ability to respond effectively to crises. Relying on public donations and grants can lead to inconsistency in resources. 

2. Political Barriers 

In conflict zones, aid delivery can be hindered by political and security-related challenges. Governments or armed groups may obstruct access to affected populations, making it difficult for humanitarian organizations to provide assistance. 

3. Coordination and Logistics 

Coordinating relief efforts and logistics in the aftermath of a disaster or in conflict zones can be complex. Efficient distribution and ensuring aid reaches those most in need are constant challenges. 

4. Changing Nature of Disasters 

Climate change and other factors have led to an increase in the frequency and intensity of disasters. This places additional pressure on humanitarian organizations to adapt and respond effectively. 

The Power of Volunteers and Donors 

Individuals can also play a significant role in disaster relief and humanitarian aid by volunteering their time, skills, or donating to organizations dedicated to these causes. By contributing, individuals become a part of the global effort to make the world a more compassionate and resilient place. 

Disaster relief and humanitarian aid are essential elements of our global community’s response to crises and disasters. These efforts save lives, alleviate suffering, and demonstrate the best of humanity in times of adversity. By supporting the organizations involved and advocating for better preparedness and response, we can all contribute to a safer and more compassionate world. 

Modern Technology: Revolutionizing Aid through Innovation 

In the intricate tapestry of modern problem-solving, technology stands out as a powerful thread weaving its way through humanitarian efforts. This article embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted role of technology in the realm of humanitarian work, delving into innovative solutions that are not only addressing global issues but also reshaping the landscape of compassionate interventions. From data-driven decision-making to the integration of artificial intelligence, this narrative unfolds over 1500 words to elucidate the transformative impact of technology on the humanitarian sector. 

Infographics on the Humanitarian Technology and Innovation
I. Data-Driven Decision-Making: Navigating the Complexities of Aid Distribution 

At the heart of humanitarian technology lies the capability for data-driven decision-making, a paradigm shift that has redefined the landscape of aid distribution. Advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms are empowering organizations to sift through vast datasets, extracting actionable insights. This newfound capacity allows for more informed and efficient decision-making, a critical aspect in humanitarian crises where time is of the essence. 

In the aftermath of natural disasters, rapid response is essential. Real-time data analysis can pinpoint the most affected areas, enabling aid organizations to allocate resources strategically. For instance, predictive modeling can anticipate the spread of diseases, facilitating the timely deployment of medical resources to mitigate health crises. 

II. Digital Connectivity: Fostering Coordination in Crisis Response 

In the digital age, connectivity is not just a luxury; it is a lifeline, especially during humanitarian crises. Mobile apps, social media platforms, and other digital tools are fostering real-time communication and coordination between affected communities and aid organizations. The immediacy of information sharing has become instrumental in delivering timely assistance, coordinating rescue operations, and ensuring that aid reaches those in dire need. 

Digital connectivity is a force multiplier during disaster response efforts. Through social media, affected individuals can communicate their needs directly to aid organizations, expediting the delivery of tailored assistance. Furthermore, the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) allows for the mapping of affected areas, aiding in resource allocation and logistics planning. 

III. Blockchain: Ensuring Transparency in Aid Distribution 

The emergence of blockchain technology is transforming the humanitarian sector by ensuring transparency and accountability in aid distribution. Blockchain’s decentralized and tamper-proof nature addresses longstanding challenges related to corruption and mismanagement of resources. By leveraging smart contracts, organizations can automate the distribution process, streamlining bureaucracy and ensuring a more efficient allocation of resources. 

In regions plagued by corruption, blockchain provides a verifiable trail of transactions, instilling confidence in donors and beneficiaries alike. This transparency not only enhances accountability but also facilitates trust-building, a crucial element in sustaining long-term humanitarian efforts. 

IV. Drones: Aerial Prowess in Humanitarian Aid 

Unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly known as drones, have emerged as indispensable tools in humanitarian aid. Their capacity to access remote or impassable areas, coupled with the ability to survey disaster-stricken regions, positions drones as invaluable assets in crisis response. Equipped with cameras and sensors, these aerial devices provide real-time imagery, aiding in search and rescue operations and enabling organizations to assess the extent of damage. 

Drones are not only efficient but also cost-effective. They can deliver medical supplies, food, and other essentials to isolated communities, especially in areas with challenging terrain. This innovative use of technology is revolutionizing the speed and efficacy of humanitarian interventions. 

V. Telemedicine: Bridging Healthcare Gaps in Crisis Zones 

Telemedicine, facilitated by technological advancements, is bridging healthcare gaps in crisis zones. The lack of access to medical facilities in conflict areas or regions affected by natural disasters can be mitigated through remote healthcare solutions. Mobile health apps and telehealth platforms provide a lifeline, enabling consultations, diagnoses, and even treatment to individuals in need. 

In humanitarian contexts, telemedicine is a beacon of hope, offering healthcare services to those who would otherwise be left without medical attention. This not only improves health outcomes but also contributes to the overall resilience of communities facing adversity. 

VI. 3D Printing: On-Demand Solutions for Unique Challenges 

The advent of 3D printing technology has ushered in a new era of on-demand solutions in humanitarian aid. From prosthetics for amputees in conflict zones to temporary shelters for displaced populations, 3D printing offers a versatile and rapid response to unique challenges. This technology allows aid organizations to customize solutions according to specific requirements, providing a more dignified and efficient response to crises. 

The versatility of 3D printing extends beyond immediate relief efforts. Organizations can create spare parts for essential equipment, deploy customized tools, and even construct low-cost housing solutions. The on-demand nature of 3D printing is revolutionizing the way humanitarian challenges are addressed. 

VII. Artificial Intelligence: Enhancing Early Warning Systems 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing a pivotal role in enhancing early warning systems for natural disasters. Machine learning algorithms analyze historical data and environmental patterns to predict potential disasters, providing communities with crucial lead time for evacuation and preparation. AI-driven early warning systems are instrumental in minimizing the impact of disasters and saving lives. 

The integration of AI into early warning systems signifies a proactive approach to disaster management. By harnessing the power of data and predictive analytics, humanitarian organizations can not only respond swiftly but also implement preventive measures to mitigate the impact of future crises. 

In the confluence of humanity and technology, a transformative journey unfolds, redefining the narrative of humanitarian work. From data-driven decision-making to the integration of artificial intelligence, innovative solutions are addressing global issues with unprecedented efficacy. The humanitarian sector, infused with the dynamism of technology, is evolving into a more responsive, transparent, and accountable force for positive change. As we embrace these advancements, we pave the way for a future where technology and compassion work hand in hand, fostering resilience and dignity for communities in need. 

Visit Crisis relief website of UN to know more information about disaster reliefs and how to donate to various organisations. You can also read about our article on clean energy and sustainable inititataives on humanitarian aid.

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In Collaboration With Who Is Hussain? https://www.nrf.org.uk/in-collaboration-with-who-is-hussain/ https://www.nrf.org.uk/in-collaboration-with-who-is-hussain/#respond Sun, 20 Dec 2020 11:28:00 +0000 https://www.nrf.org.uk/?p=13775 As Christmas is fast approaching, our team reached out to Who Is Hussain? – London to collaborate with them on their Christmas Food Drive. Who Is Hussain? is a global movement which empowers communities around the world to organise events for the common good. In the spirit of the festive season, Noor Orphans Fund provided mince pies, Christmas chocolates as […]

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As Christmas is fast approaching, our team reached out to Who Is Hussain? – London to collaborate with them on their Christmas Food Drive. Who Is Hussain? is a global movement which empowers communities around the world to organise events for the common good. In the spirit of the festive season, Noor Orphans Fund provided mince pies, Christmas chocolates as well as an inviting hot chocolate stand! Together, we provided 130 food parcels and hot drinks to the homeless in Central London.  

Our team also collected clothes donations to provide to the guests, which included winter items such as jumpers and coats. It was lovely to see the smile on all their faces! 

We also spoke to a lot of the beneficiaries and discovered a lot about their experiences and the effects that homelessness has had on their lives. Since the beginning of the pandemic, so many have struggled with basic necessities and the food drives were the only real source of food and drink for them.  

A huge thank you to Who Is Hussain? for collaborating with us.

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Noor Orphans Fund In Collaboration With Sufra https://www.nrf.org.uk/noor-orphans-fund-in-collaboration-with-sufra/ https://www.nrf.org.uk/noor-orphans-fund-in-collaboration-with-sufra/#respond Tue, 01 Dec 2020 10:57:00 +0000 https://www.nrf.org.uk/?p=13762 Thousands of people across the UK are living below the poverty line and the situation is becoming increasingly desperate. Noor Orphans Fund decided to team up with Sufra NW London to see what we can do to help.  Sufra supports families living in extreme poverty as well as those who are vulnerable, homeless, socially isolated and refugees. They provide their beneficiaries with food, a chance to learn new skills and improve their […]

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Thousands of people across the UK are living below the poverty line and the situation is becoming increasingly desperate. Noor Orphans Fund decided to team up with Sufra NW London to see what we can do to help. 

Sufra supports families living in extreme poverty as well as those who are vulnerable, homeless, socially isolated and refugees. They provide their beneficiaries with food, a chance to learn new skills and improve their wellbeing in order to find work and become financially stable. 

During this campaign, we provided 200 hygiene kits for families around North West London who have been struggling to afford basic household items. Each kit contained: hand wash, shampoo, shower gel, washing up liquid, deodorant, toothpaste and a pack of toothbrushes. 

Whilst working with Sufra’s Logistics and Facilities Manager, we discovered some of these families are refugees. They had arrived into the UK with barely anything.

By joining Sufra, we were able to provide these kits to many deserving families in need. You can watch our behind the scenes of our Sufra distribution here:

https://fb.watch/2T-vn08PTa/

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Thank You Hajir! https://www.nrf.org.uk/thank-you-hajir/ https://www.nrf.org.uk/thank-you-hajir/#respond Mon, 30 Nov 2020 10:24:00 +0000 https://www.nrf.org.uk/?p=13757 Thank you so much to Hajir and her baby who ran 10k and raised an amazing £6,400 for our Yemen COVID-19 Appeal. With their help we were able to provide essential supplies to equip 4 quarantine centres in Yemen to prevent the spread of corona virus in a land which is already badly suffering from […]

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Thank you so much to Hajir and her baby who ran 10k and raised an amazing £6,400 for our Yemen COVID-19 Appeal.

With their help we were able to provide essential supplies to equip 4 quarantine centres in Yemen to prevent the spread of corona virus in a land which is already badly suffering from the affects of war and poverty.

Noor Orphans Fund relies on passionate fundraisers like Hajir to raise funds for our appeals. You can do a run, hike, sky dive or any challenge you have in mind – we will support you every step of the way.

Get in touch with us today! Support us in our mission to help needy families in Yemen and Iraq by donating today.

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Rahaf Housing Appeal Update https://www.nrf.org.uk/rahaf-housing-appeal-update/ https://www.nrf.org.uk/rahaf-housing-appeal-update/#respond Tue, 10 Nov 2020 09:32:00 +0000 https://www.nrf.org.uk/?p=13749 In late 2019 we started fundraising for a displaced, orphaned family in Najaf to help them rebuild their home. Alhamdulilah following the many obstacles and difficulties faced this year the building of the house is now in progress and we hope the family will be able to move in soon. We thank everyone who supported […]

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In late 2019 we started fundraising for a displaced, orphaned family in Najaf to help them rebuild their home. Alhamdulilah following the many obstacles and difficulties faced this year the building of the house is now in progress and we hope the family will be able to move in soon. We thank everyone who supported us and donated to Rahaf’s appeal, you are making a real difference to the lives of this vulnerable orphaned family. There are many families just like Rahaf’s who are in need of your help.

By donating to a Housing Appeal you are contributing to sadaqa jariya and you will continue receive the rewards for many years to come. Support us in our mission to help vulnerable orphaned families in Iraq by donating today.

You can donate to our Housing Appeal today at: https://www.nrf.org.uk/donate/?form=FUNZDWOIFOW

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Yemen and COVID https://www.nrf.org.uk/yemen-and-covid/ https://www.nrf.org.uk/yemen-and-covid/#respond Sun, 18 Oct 2020 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.nrf.org.uk/?p=13017 “Help Yemen now, or watch the country fall into the abyss” United Nations Under-Secretary-General The world’s largest humanitarian crisis has never been worse as Covid-19 has spread out of control. UN Humanitarian Coordinator of Yemen Lise Grande warns, “the death toll from the virus could exceed the combined toll of war, disease, and hunger over […]

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“Help Yemen now, or watch the country fall into the abyss”

United Nations Under-Secretary-General

Distribution in Yemen

The world’s largest humanitarian crisis has never been worse as Covid-19 has spread out of control. UN Humanitarian Coordinator of Yemen Lise Grande warns, “the death toll from the virus could exceed the combined toll of war, disease, and hunger over the last five years”. At an alarming 28.7%, Yemen currently holds the highest reported Covid-19 case-fatality rate worldwide; due to the scarcity of Covid-19 testing kits, the actual mortality risk could be exceedingly worse. With millions of poverty-stricken Yemenis already suffering from the long-term impacts of the unrelenting conflict, the emergence of Covid-19 further exacerbates the Yemeni people’s need for humanitarian aid. 

The displacement of over 3.6 million Yemenis living in unsanitary and overcrowded sectors exponentially increases the risk of exposure. The lack of access to clean water and adequate living space have thwarted necessary public health preventative measures such as social distancing, wearing masks, and frequent hand-washing. Women and children are disproportionately at risk of contracting the virus as they comprise nearly 83% of the internally displaced Yemenis. Coupled with the high prevalence of acute malnutrition and communicable diseases amongst IDPs, the rate of contraction and transmission of the virus is exceedingly high. 

Furthermore, years of unabated war have crumbled Yemen’s healthcare system. Ceaseless airstrikes have demolished countless hospitals and clinics across the country. Only half of the nation’s medical facilities remain functional and about two-thirds of the population lacks access to obtain treatment. Many of these facilities face shortages of the necessary medical supplies to manage the uncontrollable spread of the virus. Currently, Yemen only has 700 intensive care beds and 500 ventilators available in the entire country. Unless healthcare facilities receive more foreign aid, millions of Yemenis can potentially be left to suffer from the detrimental health effects of the virus on their own.

Yemen is on the brink of reaching the point of no return. Roughly 80 percent of the country’s population – 24 million people – are in need of humanitarian aid for survival, half of which are children. Nearly 3 million children and pregnant or lactating women suffer from acute malnutrition. 400,000 children are severely malnourished and are at risk of life-threatening complications. In addition to the worst famine the world has seen in 100 years, Yemen has been also plagued by the worst cholera outbreak in human history. The state of Yemen is frighteningly dire and the rise of Covid-19 creates an unprecedented emergency within the world’s largest humanitarian crisis.

Despite the atrocities of the conflict of Yemen reaching the global stage, the increasing need for humanitarian aid has reached an all time high. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reports that Yemen has only received 18 percent of the funding needed for this 2020. The Yemen pledging conference generated only 1.35 billion dollars in commitments, almost half of the 2.4 billion dollar goal set by the UN to sustain basic humanitarian operations. While UN agencies and aid operations have run out of financial resources, the people of Yemen are in need of help now more than ever. They now turn to us, their brothers and sisters in faith, as a last hope. While the world may turn its back, we must stand united and do all we can to contribute because the people of Yemen are running out of food, running out of resources, and running out of time. 

-Ali

With the amazing generosity of our donors and fundraisers, Noor Orphans Fund has raised enough money to equip four coronavirus quarantine centres in Yemen. These centres will now be able to take care of people who show COVID-19 like symptoms. 

The funds raised will go towards providing these centres with essential hygiene and medical items.  

A thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping the Yemini people fight this disease in the midst of a war torn country. 

Your donations have and will help in saving many Yemeni lives.  

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Arbaeen Live Fundraising Show https://www.nrf.org.uk/arbaeen-live-fundraising-show/ https://www.nrf.org.uk/arbaeen-live-fundraising-show/#respond Mon, 12 Oct 2020 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.nrf.org.uk/?p=13007 Noor Orphans Fund presented the commemoration of the 40th of the Martyrs of Karbala in 3 special LIVE broadcasts on Ahlebait TV from 9th to 11th October 2020.    The shows included renowned scholars and presenters who helped us fundraise for Noor Orphans Fund’s ‘Feed the Poor’ campaign. The presenters were all excellent and we were amazed to see the generosity of fantastic […]

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Noor Orphans Fund presented the commemoration of the 40th of the Martyrs of Karbala in 3 special LIVE broadcasts on Ahlebait TV from 9th to 11th October 2020.   
 
The shows included renowned scholars and presenters who helped us fundraise for Noor Orphans Fund’s ‘Feed the Poor’ campaign. The presenters were all excellent and we were amazed to see the generosity of fantastic donors who called from all over the world!  

Many people called in to reiterate the messages of our duty to support and care for orphans and the vulnerable. We are fortunate enough to have exemplar role models in the Ahlulbayt and when we learn how they treated orphans and made sure they did their duty towards them as commanded by God – we need to ensure we do the same. 

The fundraising evenings would not have been a success without our amazing volunteers who never cease to amaze us with their commitment and dedication to the orphans. In particular, we would like to thank Shah Abbas, Mohammed Sheikh and Neil Nasser for their relentless efforts in arranging this event and recruiting and motivating volunteers. 

With the help and blessings of the Almighty, NOF managed to raise £31,000 over the three days and this will now be immediately used to feed those in need in Iraq and Yemen.  

If you would like to donate to this campaign please visit: https://www.nrf.org.uk/feed-the-poor

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Noor Orphans Fund Goes Hiking! https://www.nrf.org.uk/noor-orphans-fund-goes-hiking/ https://www.nrf.org.uk/noor-orphans-fund-goes-hiking/#respond Mon, 05 Oct 2020 11:21:00 +0000 https://www.nrf.org.uk/?p=12982 On Sunday, 4th October 2020 a group of dedicated Noor Orphans Fund fundraisers and supporters hiked 8 miles to reach the summit of mount Snowdon, – the highest mountain in Wales and England – to raise funds for the orphans and widows in Iraq.   The orphaned families are now in desperate need more than ever and that is why […]

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NOF Team at the peak of mount Snowdon

On Sunday, 4th October 2020 a group of dedicated Noor Orphans Fund fundraisers and supporters hiked 8 miles to reach the summit of mount Snowdon, – the highest mountain in Wales and England – to raise funds for the orphans and widows in Iraq.  
 
The orphaned families are now in desperate need more than ever and that is why this Muharram and Safar, Noor Orphans Fund has focused its fundraising efforts on acquiring more orphan sponsorships to enable them to reach out to more and more families.  
 
By donating towards Noor Orphans Fund’s Orphan Sponsorship Programme you are helping orphaned families afford basic living costs such as food, clothes and other essential supplies. You are helping the orphans to thrive as well as providing them with hope for the future. Together with your kindness, we can make a difference to the lives of millions of children in Iraq. 
 
If you would like to do something similar to raise funds for Noor Orphans Fund please get in touch and we will be more than happy to help! 
 
It is not too late to donate towards this fundraising campaign! Please follow the link below to donate! 

Sponsor an Orphan

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Forgotten Orphans Campaign https://www.nrf.org.uk/forgotten-orphans-campaign/ https://www.nrf.org.uk/forgotten-orphans-campaign/#respond Fri, 21 Aug 2020 16:16:00 +0000 https://www.nrf.org.uk/?p=13737 Thank you to all those who have signed up to sponsor an orphan this Muharram, you will be making a great contribution to the most vulnerable orphaned families in Iraq. There are still many orphans on our waiting list and it is not too late to support our campaign. Children make up the majority of […]

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Thank you to all those who have signed up to sponsor an orphan this Muharram, you will be making a great contribution to the most vulnerable orphaned families in Iraq. There are still many orphans on our waiting list and it is not too late to support our campaign.

Children make up the majority of the 4.5 million Iraqis who have been pushed below the poverty line due to the impact COVID-19 has had on the economy. (UNICEF-2020)

Millions of forgotten orphans are living in the land of Imam Hussain (a). After years of continuous wars and hardship life is not getting easier for them, they need our help to ensure they can grow up in a healthy, safe and empowering environment.

Let’s help the orphans reach their full potential.

While remembering Imam Hussain (a) and the orphans of Karbala this Muharram…
Let’s not forget the forgotten orphans of Iraq
Let’s follow the path of Hussain (a)
And sponsor an orphan today…

Co-sponsorship for £20/month
or full sponsorship for £40/month

If you are not able to commit to a monthly or annual sponsorship you can make a one-off donation to our sponsorship campaign.

www.noororphansfund.org/forgottenorphans

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The desensitisation to the pain of others https://www.nrf.org.uk/the-desethe-desensitisation-to-the-pain-of-others/ https://www.nrf.org.uk/the-desethe-desensitisation-to-the-pain-of-others/#respond Fri, 21 Aug 2020 14:26:44 +0000 https://www.nrf.org.uk/?p=12157 By: Reda Zarrad What comes to mind when I say ‘information’? Is it the media? The internet? Libraries and books? No matter what form it takes, information is all around us, an integral part of our daily lives. But there’s a second type of information, arguably more important than the first, that isn’t restricted to […]

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By: Reda Zarrad

What comes to mind when I say ‘information’? Is it the media? The internet? Libraries and books? No matter what form it takes, information is all around us, an integral part of our daily lives.

But there’s a second type of information, arguably more important than the first, that isn’t restricted to the flesh of a book or the database of a search engine. What am I talking about? The best way I can describe it (though it’s still a complex and ambiguous definition) is the life code of the universe.The sights you see, the sounds you hear, the sensations you feel; all of these are your experiences of this information. Fundamentally, the relationship you have with this type of information is very similar (if not identical) to the relationship between a computer and data. As the computer would with the data, your mind is constantly at work processing, organising and storing your experiences of this information into a network that can be drawn on in the future.

By this point, you’re probably wondering how this has anything to do with Noor Orphan’s fund, and I don’t blame you. At an eye’s glance, it seems like this concept is completely unrelated, even irrelevant, to Noor Orphan fund’s mission. But upon further examination, there is one outstanding aspect, one tiny detail, that makes this concept incredibly relevant and topical: the numerous consequences of repetitive exposure…

To prevent itself from being overwhelmed by the sheer quantity of information around it, the mind has adapted to become more efficient in the way it organises our experiences. When a person experiences something for the first time (be it a new sight, smell, taste or otherwise), the person’s mind recognises that this is its first encounter with this new information, and creates a new category (similar to a new folder on a computer) to store this information in its ‘database’. After that however, the experience is stored in the same category, and the person gradually becomes more and more used to it, and pays less and less attention to it over time. And while this technique is undoubtedly beneficial as it allows the mind to focus on new experiences, and increase its knowledge of the world around it, it has the potential to cause much more harm than good.

Let me give you an example: say you’re watching tv , and a charity advert appears between the programmes, showing poverty stricken, needy people and the conditions they’re forced to live in. Naturally, you would feel upset, and probably angry as well, that this suffering was allowed not only to happen in a world that could easily cater for all of its inhabitants, but to continue as well. And while these aren’t nice ways to feel, they drive you to help those people in need, by donating, volunteering or otherwise, and therefore lead to a positive outcome. Now imagine that that same advert was the only one played between the programmes, looped again and again and again. Would you still feel as upset the second time you watched it? The third time? The fourth? The tenth?

The more we see it, the more we become used to it, and the less significant it becomes to us. After the initial flurry of emotion we feel, our minds gradually become accustomed to it, leading to a more stifled emotional response each time. The result? We become desensitised. Normalised to the pain and suffering of others. We see it not for what it is but for what our minds tell us it is: a normality. Maybe even a fact of life. And that, that is truly a dangerous and debhilitating mindset to have, not least because it robs us of a reason to give and donate. Why would we, when our minds , like miniature satans whispering in our ears, tell us that we can’t make a difference?

And unfortunately, no one is immune to the shackles of desensitisation. But that’s not to say we can’t break free of them. And the remedy, the antidote some might say, is so wonderfully simple

that it’s a mystery why it isn’t more widely known. All it needs is for us to truly reflect on the pain and suffering of others. Because desensitisation is like a veil between us and reality: with only a quick glance, and barely a thought given to the matter, we’ll always be confined to the narrow minded, distorting lens created by the veil. But just a moment to ponder on the suffering of others, and the devastating hardships a lot of people endure, will lead to this veil being taken down, allowing us to see clearly, if not with our eyes then with our hearts, reality as it is. And in doing so, we can transform an undeniably detrimental side effect into an opportunity to see reality even clearer than before.

If you’re not convinced, try it. Take a few moments just to think, deeply and wholeheartedly about, about the calamities that have afflicted people all around the world, and the daily struggles they endure.

People like 8 year old Ruqayah, whose father was killed by criminals before she was born. Her mother, living in fear and poverty, was forced to send her and her brother away to live with a relative when the same criminals began to threaten her brother.

Or like Muhannad, whose father was killed on duty as a soldier, and whose mother passed away during childbirth, to a baby that did not live to two months. He lives in a house with 17 other children, all looked after by his amazingly resilient aunt.

Or like Ghadeer, who lost her leg in a tragic accident, and lives in an overcrowded house with fifteen other children. She lost her parents years ago.

And the list continues. The scale of suffering in our world is overwhelming, sickening even, as behind it lies a story of human greed and selfishness, and a willingness to profit from the suffering of others. Suffering epitomised in the life of these orphaned children. Suffering that’s multi faceted and emotionally scarring, ranging from parental loss and trauma, to a life of poverty and hardship. And this pain has only increased during this epidemic. The enforcement of a lockdown has crippled the already fragile Iraqi economy, leaving those most vulnerable to suffer at the hands of increased prices, and shortages of basic goods like food and medicine. To them, it must seem as though this is just the latest edition of a series of calamities plaguing Iraq and its citizens.

But, as is often seen throughout history, the suffering of some brings out the best in others. Noor Orphans Fund works tirelessly to ensure not only that as many orphaned children as possible are lifted from poverty and helped to flourish, but that they are all served in a comprehensive and dignified manner. And this work simply couldn’t happen without the many generous donors supporting them, who believe in a brighter future for the orphaned children they support. Today, Noor orphan’s fund serves a few thousand orphaned children, each and every one with different skills, talents, strengths and weaknesses, each and every one embracing their own unique beliefs, personality and identity.

So rest assured that any contribution you make, no matter how small, will mean the world to someone else who needs it most. And that your contributions will go towards changing a life forever.

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