Our Projects
Poverty Relief
The economic situation is critical in Afghanistan at present with lots of families living in poverty. Many cannot afford basic living provisions, such as food and healthcare, but these difficulties are even more stark for certain groups of people, such as widowed women with children, disabled individuals, and those living with serious health conditions. Qatrah runs campaigns throughout the year and then distributes provisions to identifies and approved beneficiaries. Turn to page 12 for our operations strategy.
Qatrah runs food distribution programmes throughout the year, and in each campaign, we help 50-100 families. Each family receives a selection of staple foods, such as rice, oil, flour, and pulses. See the below image for an example.
Qatrah also provides poverty relief in other ways, on a case-by-case basis. For example, we have previously supported individuals with the costs of emergency healthcare, as well as support towards rent and housing costs.
Education
Qatrah envisages a world where every girl can go to school and pursue the education they desire. Access to education for all is not only important for the development of society, but it is also important for the alleviation of poverty, as it means more individuals are in a better position to support themselves.
Since the Taliban assumed power of Afghanistan in 2021, secondary school aged girls have been denied an education. With schools closed to them, their mental health, and in turn hope for the future, have plummeted.
Qatrah runs a variety of educational classes, including sewing and tailoring and midwifery, with the goal of female empowerment and skills development. These classes have proved hugely popular and have supported hundreds of girls in acquiring the skills necessary to financially support themselves and their families.
Afghanistan is vulnerable to numerous types of disasters, from natural disasters such as earthquakes, to human-caused disasters such as terrorist attacks. These disasters could occur at any time and without warning, causing immense disruption and pain to people’s lives. Qatrah prides itself on its quick response times, helping victims at such critical times in unique and personal ways.
Critical disasters in recent memory include severe flooding in northern Afghanistan, the Herat earthquakes, and the suicide bombing on Baghlan mosque. Qatrah responded swiftly to these disasters and provided essential care to the victims.
First, Qatrah’s survey team arrives in the area soon after the disaster hits and swiftly assesses the situation and needs of the people affected. Valuable and relevant aid is then delivered, and support given, especially to women and children, to help them to rebuild their lives and get back on their feet.
Disaster Response
Refugee Support
Qatrah also supports people of Afghanistani origin in the UK. While the UK may offer a certain level of safety and security, everyday life can still be a challenge. To support those who are seeking asylum or have been granted refugee status, and their dependents, Qatrah organises community events and educational opportunities to develop community members’ capacity and skills and support them in better integrating into and participating more fully in British society.
Community events could include advice clinics to enhance understanding of British society and one’s rights, or local cultural events to foster community cohesion and social belonging, combat loneliness, and celebrate Afghan cultures and diversity in the community.
Educational opportunities could include English lessons, employment support, such as CV building and interview skills, or skill development, such as tailoring or learning to swim.