The Hope Caravan Foundation (Umut Kervanı Vakfı) launched its fifth “Social Market” in Bursa’s Yıldırım district on Thursday, offering a dignified way for needy families to access essential goods.

The opening ceremony, attended by local officials, NGO leaders, and community members, highlighted the foundation’s commitment to innovative humanitarian aid across Türkiye and beyond.

Unlike traditional aid distribution, the social market allows recipients to shop for free, selecting essentials like food, clothing, hygiene products, and cleaning supplies based on a spending allowance tailored to their family’s needs. Donated goods and monetary contributions from philanthropists stock the market, ensuring a steady supply.

Hope Caravan President Cengiz Kurtaran emphasized the initiative’s focus on dignity: “Our goal is to let the needy meet their needs without judgment, building bridges between benefactors and the vulnerable.” He announced plans to expand the model to all 32 provinces and 80 districts where the foundation operates.

The foundation also reaffirmed its support for Gaza, where it has provided aid since before the October 7, 2023, Aqsa Flood operation. “We stand with Gaza amid the ongoing genocide and will continue until this atrocity ends,” Kurtaran said.

Ahmet Cihan, President of the Bursa Hope Caravan Association, described the market as “a door of goodness” and a “caravan of sharing and mercy.” He highlighted its empowering approach: “This isn’t just aid—it’s giving people the power to choose what they need, from food to clothing.”

Yıldırım Deputy Mayor Mücahit Bozkurt, speaking at the event, praised the foundation’s ethos, quoting the Prophet: “The best of you is the one most beneficial to others.” Representatives from organizations like IHH and HAKSIAD also attended, alongside a Qur’an recitation by Ebubekir Arslan, speeches, prayers, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The Bursa social market marks a milestone in Hope Caravan’s mission to deliver compassionate, dignified aid across Türkiye and four continents, transforming charity into lasting impact. (ILKHA)