The Barzani Charity Foundation (BCF) is a non-governmental and non-profit organization that has been aiding vulnerable individuals and communities in the Kurdistan Region and beyond since its establishment in 2005. The foundation was named after the legendary leader, Mustafa Barzani, who was the most prominent figure in modern Kurdish politics.

One of the defining characteristics of the BCF is its commitment to serving all communities regardless of religion, ethnicity, or political affiliation. The foundation highly values the humanistic and compassionate aspects of all religions, seeing them as a means to unite rather than divide people. The foundation has been actively involved in various religious events, helping those in need regardless of their faith or background.

During times of crisis and hardship, the BCF has been a consistent source of support to those affected. For example, when extremist groups attacked the Christian residents of Mosul in 2008, many fled to the Kurdistan Region seeking refuge. The foundation was one of the first organizations to respond to their needs, providing them with shelter, food, and other necessary assistance. The Vatican formally recognized the foundation's efforts and expressed gratitude for its help during this difficult time.

Another instance where the BCF demonstrated its commitment to supporting communities in crisis was during the ISIS attacks on the Yazidis. The foundation and its partners provided over nine million meals to 150,000 people in 45 days. This level of assistance was critical in supporting the Yazidis, who were facing a dire humanitarian situation.

The BCF also plays an essential role in promoting peaceful coexistence among different communities. The foundation believes that every religious and ethnic group deserves respect and support and has worked tirelessly to bring people together around shared values of love and kindness. As a result of its work, the foundation has earned the trust and support of donors and partners from diverse backgrounds.

Recently, the BCF was involved in two critical religious events: the holy month of Ramadan and the Yazidi New Year on April 19 (Red Wednesday). During Ramadan, the foundation provided food parcels and prepared meals for tens of thousands of people across the Kurdistan region and other regions of Iraq. In the Kurdistan region and other governorates of Iraq, 65,600 food parcels were provided. Additionally, 35,000 prepared food meals were given to poor people, workers, and orphans in Kurdistan. Moreover, more than 80 families received cash as alms, which were collected and distributed by the organization.

During the Yazidi New Year celebration, the BCF distributed food parcels and eggs to 750 Yazidi families in need. Through its ongoing efforts, the foundation has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to supporting vulnerable individuals and communities in the Kurdistan Region and beyond.

The BCF also collected and distributed cash as alms to more than 80 families and helped to build homes for 13 families. Furthermore, the program helped three poor families start small businesses. The foundation contributed 600,000 USD to the program, aiming to improve the selected beneficiaries' lives by providing shelter, livelihood, and basic needs. 

After the earthquake in Turkey, the BCF provided 210,000 prepared food meals for the survivors. Additionally, the BCF aided earthquake survivors in Afrin, Syria, by distributing food parcels to over 114,000 families.

The BCF is a remarkable organization that has made a significant difference in the lives of countless people. Its tireless work in responding to crises, promoting peaceful coexistence, and helping those in need has earned the trust and support of communities across the Kurdistan Region and beyond.

The foundation acknowledges and expresses gratitude to its donors, partners, staff, and volunteers for their unwavering trust, support, and tireless efforts in serving the less fortunate. It recognizes that their commitment and dedication have made it possible to provide essential aid to those in need, such as food, shelter, and livelihood opportunities. 

The BCF is committed to continuing its assistance programs that aim to improve the lives of poor families and promote social cohesion and harmony among different religious and ethnic groups. The foundation firmly believes that through collaboration and mutual support, it can make a significant impact in uplifting communities and achieving its mission of creating a better world for all.

Karzan Noori is Administrative Board Member and Program Planning Manager at the Barzani Charity Foundation (BCF).