Hope Caravan Foundation announced a new initiative called "Step to Peace" to assist young couples facing financial barriers to marriage.

The initiative aims to support 100 couples in 2024 by covering essential household items like a bedroom set, living room furniture, refrigerator, washing machine, and oven.

Erdal Elibüyük, Vice President of Hope Caravan Foundation, explained the project's goals, emphasizing the foundation's commitment to supporting young couples with the help of businesspeople. "We aim to alleviate the financial burden on young people who wish to marry but face economic hardships," Elibüyük said. "With the support of the businesspeople we visited, we hope to make their dreams of marriage a reality."

The foundation's efforts extend beyond marriage support. Elibüyük highlighted their broader humanitarian activities, noting that they delivered aid to over 30 countries, particularly during Eid al-Adha. "Our work this year has been abundant and productive. We have distributed sacrificial meat to over 1 million people, thanks to the generosity of our donors," he said.

Discussing the "Step to Peace" project, Elibüyük shared that it had initially been planned for early 2024 but was delayed due to the attacks in Gaza. The project has now resumed, focusing on providing essential items for newlyweds, including bedroom sets, living room furniture, refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens. The foundation is currently on an Anatolian tour to promote the initiative and seek support from philanthropists and businesses.

The project has already made progress in the Aegean-Marmara region and will continue through various provinces, including Adana, Antep, Şanlıurfa, Diyarbakır, Batman, and Van. "We meet with local philanthropists and businessmen, explain our project, and seek their support. We also engage with the media and opinion leaders to raise awareness," Elibüyük explained.

Elibüyük emphasized the importance of marriage for social stability and called on NGOs and philanthropists to support the initiative. "Marriage is crucial for social peace and the well-being of future generations. At a time when marriage rates are decreasing and divorce rates are increasing, it is vital to address these issues," he said.

He also advised young people to avoid luxury and extravagance, which can complicate their lives, and instead support their peers who face financial challenges. "Family is the cornerstone of society, and we must protect it from various threats," Elibüyük added.

The foundation aims to facilitate the marriage of 100 couples by the end of 2024 and plans to organize events to bring together the couples and donors to celebrate their unions and encourage continued support. "We hope to share the happiness of our couples and expand this project to benefit more young people," Elibüyük concluded. (ILKHA)