Restoring Hope – The Strength of Seven Orphans and Their Grandmother

In the quiet outskirts of Najaf, Iraq, seven young orphans and their elderly grandmother faced a life of unimaginable hardship following a devastating tragedy. 

After witnessing the violent death of their mother in a family dispute and the subsequent imprisonment of their father, the children were left without stability or security. Their maternal grandmother, Saadia Khazal Khashan, stepped in to care for them, despite her own struggles with poverty and limited resources. 

Their living conditions were dire. The house lacked electricity, running water, and even basic sanitary facilities. The absence of an external fence left them exposed to theft and danger, making nights especially terrifying. 

The youngest child, A’un, often woke up crying from nightmares about his mother’s death, and Saadia, overwhelmed by fear and helplessness, sometimes sought refuge with neighbors. The bitter winter only worsened their suffering, with cracked hands from washing dishes in freezing water and no way to keep warm. 

Recognizing their urgent need, The Zahra Trust stepped in with compassion and immediate action. A field survey was conducted, and a structured plan was developed to uplift the family.  

Restoring Stability and Safety 

The Trust’s support came in three crucial phases:

• Immediate Needs: The home was equipped with running water, sanitary fixtures, and an electric water heater, improving hygiene and providing warmth. Electrical connections and safe circuit breakers were installed, ensuring safety. A secure external fence was built, offering much-needed protection.
• Food and Essentials: Regular food packages were delivered, supplying grains, vegetables, fruits, and meat so the children no longer had to endure hunger.
• Educational and Emotional Support: To nurture the children’s well-being, the male orphans participated in enriching programs. They joined a Toyota-sponsored dream car drawing competition, attended a local book fair, and celebrated Imam Ali’s birthday, finding joy in these moments of normalcy.

The Transformation 

The impact was life-changing. With running water, Saadia no longer had to wash dishes in the cold, and the children could bathe in warm water, improving their health. The secure fence gave them peace of mind, allowing them to sleep without fear.

Deeply touched by the support, Saadia expressed her gratitude:

“When night falls, I cry for my daughter and the hardship my grandchildren face. But now, with the help of The Zahra Trust, I see a light in our lives. The warm water, the secure fence, and the food have brought comfort to my heart and hope to our home.”

The children, too, found hope. Their participation in recreational and educational activities reminded them they were not alone, strengthening their resilience and restoring their sense of belonging.

Continuing the Journey 

While their situation has improved, challenges remain. Saadia remains committed to caring for the children, prioritizing their needs while refusing to leave her home out of fear of losing it.

The Zahra Trust continues to support them with monthly stipends, seasonal clothing, and educational opportunities, ensuring they have the resources to move forward.

This family’s story is a testament to the power of compassion and meaningful support. It proves that even in the wake of tragedy, hope can be restored, dignity can be reclaimed, and lives can be rebuilt with collective effort and care.

Quote: “When night falls, I cry for my daughter and the hardship my grandchildren face. But now, with the help of The Zahra Trust, I see a light in our lives. The warm water, the secure fence, and the food have brought comfort to my heart and hope to our home.“