How to Help Orphans and Show Support

Every year, on the first Friday of April, Orphan’s Day is celebrated. This day was made to highlight the struggles of orphans, and the importance of shedding light on giving them opportunities, lessening the stigma around being an orphan, and giving back to the community through donations and volunteering.

This year remarks an important representation of every day each orphan faces, with Ramdan’s series “Welad El Shams” airing, it instantly became a smash hit.

By the end of the series, a short documentary was conducted with multiple grown-up orphans who talked about their experiences, the harsh realities, labels being thrown at them, their triumphs, and their pleas to the public.

 

So based on what they’ve stated, what can we do to help orphans and show support?

 

Stop with the stigma and shaming. 

First and foremost, the stigma and relentless shame surrounding this experience must come to an end. We should always keep in mind that no one chooses to lose a parent, and no one should ever be made to feel inadequate or less than because of it. Our compassion, understanding, and unwavering support must be present to those navigating this profound loss. Offering a helping hand and a listening ear can make all the difference in their journey towards healing.

 

Be Serious About “Kafala”

One of the plot lines that was shown in “Welad El Shams” is Wel’aa being stranded and abandoned by his adoptive parents the moment the mother got pregnant after he got settled for years. Imagine, the moment you feel like you have a support system that loves you suddenly leaves you because “you are no longer required and bio sons are more important” Choosing to ditch a person and leaving them in an orphanage like they are used goods is inhumane.  

Going the "Kafala" method requires you to be dedicated to the position and carry out your parental responsibilities as though they were your own.

Kids are not accessories that you can easily ditch, so be responsible. 

 

Volunteering Matters

When it comes to volunteering, think about planning frequent trips to nearby orphanages.  You can plan events like sports games, storytelling sessions, or workshops for arts and crafts to engage the kids in meaningful ways during these visits.

These small actions mean the world to them, for they feel more connected and seen. 

 

Donation Helps

Organizations that assist orphans can greatly benefit from financial donations.  Make sure the children in need directly benefit from your donations by selecting a registered charity.

Donations like these cover food, water, access to education, and help being integrated into society.

A small donation like a few pounds, clothes, and books do matter so don’t underestimate the importance of donations for they actually help and make a difference.