Just days ahead of Eid al-Adha, the Orphans Foundation (Yetimler Vakfı) has brought smiles to the faces of hundreds of children in Van through its annual “Orphan Dressing Project.”

In a heartfelt initiative supported by local philanthropists, 350 orphans and children in need were gifted new holiday clothes and shoes, allowing them to celebrate the upcoming Eid with dignity and joy.

The project, which has become a cherished tradition, was carried out in partnership with a local store, where children were invited to personally select their Eid outfits. The event created a festive atmosphere, with families joining their children in experiencing the joy of shopping for the holiday. The sight of children happily choosing their clothes and shoes stood out as one of the most touching moments of the celebration.

Erkut Özbey, Van Representative of the Orphans Foundation, expressed gratitude to supporters and emphasized the growing impact of the initiative. “We started with 300 children this year, and now we’ve reached 350,” he said. “Inshallah, with the continued support of our generous benefactors, we hope to increase this number even further before Eid.”

The Orphans Foundation, known for its local and international humanitarian efforts, is also continuing its campaign for Eid sacrifice (qurbani) donations by proxy. Özbey noted that, in addition to providing festive clothing, the foundation is working to deliver sacrificial meat to orphans and vulnerable families both in Türkiye and abroad.

“This year, as the Van office, we plan to go to Yemen to distribute sacrificial meat to orphans and victims there,” he said. “Our Eid allowance and clothing projects will continue until the day of Eid. We invite everyone to contribute and help us reach more children in need.”

Families participating in the event expressed their heartfelt thanks to the foundation and its donors, saying the early Eid gifts brought immense happiness to their children.

The Orphans Foundation’s ongoing initiatives continue to serve as a source of hope and joy for disadvantaged children and families, embodying the spirit of giving that defines Eid al-Adha. (ILKHA)