Caritas Iraq, known locally as Akhuyat el Mahabba was started in 1992 as a result of the imposition of international sanctions; new statutes were adopted in 2007. Caritas Iraq is a non-governmental organization active in programmes for malnourished children, assistance for the elderly and people with physical and learning difficulties, medical and food assistance, rental subsidies, building, housing and shelter, water and sanitation. It works with the Iraqi Red Crescent Society and is supported by many Caritas organizations.

Budget

About US$350,000

Beneficiaries

Approximately 30,000

Paid Staff

122

Volunteers

300

The political and military situation in Iraq makes the work of Caritas difficult and dangerous; the centres in Baghdad and Mosul have had to close for safety reasons. Caritas Internationalis advocates for needy people in Iraq through its permanent delegations to the United Nations in Geneva and New York, with particular attention to neutrality, protection, the rights of minorities and protection of the most vulnerable.

Programmes

Caritas Iraq currently implements the following programmes:

  • Well Baby – care for malnourished babies and children, counselling and support for mothers; the five centres are in Baghdad and Kirkuk, and in Alqosh, Qaraqosh and Bartella in Mosul province;
  • Humanitarian – help for vulnerable people and families such as households headed by women, people with physical and learning difficulties, the elderly and orphans; the programme supports orphanages and homes for the elderly and provides food, medicines, medical examinations, blankets, clothing and cash where needed;
  • Displaced people – humanitarian assistance for the two million people displaced by war and violence;
  • Children – helping the integration of children with special needs into society, promoting a community-based approach and empowering families;
  • Peace-building and reconciliation – training and awareness-building based on actual conflict situations affecting families or neighbourhoods; in some cases the sessions have led to productive exchanges with Muslim religious leaders, some of whom have become promoters of the project; and
  • Occasional support –financial help where possible for Church communities and institutions targeted by violence.