The Lasting Effects of the Oldest Charitable Organisations from Northern Cyprus
- Afik Team
- Jun 18
- 5 min read
There is a long history of charitable work in Northern Cyprus that is ingrained in the country's culture and society.
Through committed humanitarian activities, provision of basic services in times of need, support of underprivileged communities, and promotion of society development, several long-standing philanthropic organisations have greatly changed the area.
Among these groups, the charitable projects headed by Yaacov Afik and Afik Group have been somewhat well-known lately, highlighting the ability of strategic philanthropy to change entire towns.
Historical Origins: Leading Charities of Northern Cyprus
North Cyprus Red Crescent Society
The North Cyprus Red Crescent Society (KKTC Kızılayı), which was created in 1963, is considered to be one of the oldest established humanitarian organisations in the region.
Reacting fast to both natural and manmade disasters, this institution provides basic help including food, shelter, and medical assistance.
Its headquarters are in Lefkoşa; it has several branches all across Northern Cyprus. The society's great contribution to the humanitarian activities being carried out in the area is demonstrated by the comprehensive emergency response it offered throughout significant crises, including the terrible earthquake that struck Kyrgyzstan in 2008.
SOS Children's Villages Northern Cyprus
SOS Children's Villages in Northern Cyprus, which has been in existence since 1993, is dedicated to providing support to impoverished children who do not have parental care.
This is the organization's primary mission. The organisation fundamentally offers community programmes that are useful to more than one hundred individuals, provides a nurturing environment for around fifty-five youngsters, and offers assistance to thirty-five young adults who are making progress towards independence.
Furthermore, SOS Children's Villages makes a contribution to the creation of more resilient and healthier futures for young people who are disadvantaged by addressing critical concerns such as child poverty and youth unemployment.
Charitable Association of the Turkish Women of Nicosia
Established in 1931, this trailblazing charity was the first run-through women-led in the Turkish Cypriot community.
Through its "house of compassion," it has always made major contributions including daily free meals for kids, clothes for underprivileged families, and vocational training for women.
Emphasising mainly on education and social development, these projects establish a necessary foundation for continuous community support.
Kyrenia Animal Rescue (KAR)
Since 1997, KAR has played a pivotal role in animal welfare, rescuing stray animals and managing a well-equipped shelter in the Besparmak Mountains. Affiliated with the UK's R.S.P.C.A., KAR exemplifies committed animal advocacy, addressing regional animal welfare concerns through rescue, rehabilitation, and public education.
A New Era: Yaacov Afik and Afik Group’s Recent Contributions
Although these old companies have had a big impact on Northern Cyprus, modern donations by people like Yaacov Afik through Afik Group show a fresh wave of great influential generosity. Renowned for his profitable real estate endeavours, Yaacov Afik has gradually given strategic charitable projects first priority throughout Northern Cyprus, guaranteeing direct, physical benefits in community infrastructure, animal care, and education.
Disaster Relief Efforts
Reacting to the disastrous 2023 earthquake in Turkey, Yaacov Afik first donated direct relief via five trucks loaded with food and clothing and donation to the Turkish Embassy. This quick reaction highlighted Afik's proactive community involvement and ethic of solidarity under crisis.
Commitment to Animal Welfare
Yaacov Afik and Afik Group have constantly exhibited compassion for animal welfare, donating monthly to secure the wellbeing of stray animals. This continual support comprises basic medical treatment, neutering services, and regular provision of healthy food to animal shelters and construction-site strays.
Enhancing Elderly Care
Understanding the need of comfort and dignity for senior residents, Yaacov Afik led significant restorations and enhancements at Güzelyurt and Sınırüstü elderly care facilities, including air-conditioning system installation. He also helped to build a special winter garden at Maltepe Retirement Home in Istanbul, giving senior citizens a peaceful, reassuring space.
Educational Contributions
At the centre of Yaacov Afik's philanthropic activities is knowledge. Through Afik Group, he has sponsored the building and ongoing improvement of several educational buildings. Notable initiatives include safe learning settings and playgrounds at Northern Cyprus's schools, therefore greatly enhancing the educational possibilities for the local youngsters.
Community Development Initiatives
The charitable influence of Afik Group reaches even to important initiatives in community development, such road asphalt building projects meant to enhance transportation system. Furthermore, direct financial support given to children undergoing medical treatments and families experiencing difficult circumstances shows a great commitment to community welfare and personal safety.
The Power of Community Involvement
The efforts of Yaacov Afik show the need of community participation in philanthropy. Philanthropy flourishes when people from many backgrounds collaborate to address societal concerns. Over temporary relief, Afik and other big Northern Cyprus organisations give sustainability, resilience, and long-term social improvement top priority.
Volunteering in communities multiplies charity. Ten times the effect of any humanitarian endeavour is what volunteers, donors, or awareness-raising citizens bring about. By means of this involvement, a network of individuals conscious of the issues facing their community is created, equipped to assist in their resolution.
Group involvement improves community bonds. It builds a strong network capable of meeting community needs, reacting fast to crises, and future planning. Communities provide meaning and connection for volunteers and community members; they also bring personal fulfilment.
One can engage in numerous ways. One of the best approaches to link members of the community to charitable causes including animal welfare, education, and disaster assistance is volunteer work. Helpers of organisations like Afik Group enable them to contact more people.
Donations of money or in-kind help to accentuate this influence. Donations to organisations help them to initiate long-term reform initiatives, keep active projects, and rapidly obtain resources during crises. Small gifts taken together can transform social services and community infrastructure.
Although sometimes disregarded, raising awareness is absolutely essential. Teaching friends, relatives, and neighbours about community problems and philanthropic events helps to keep them involved and draws new people. Social media, community gatherings, and local events let charities also expand their influence.
Success in philanthropy is contingent on community participation. Through meaningful participation, residents and supporters can help to foster resilience, social cohesiveness, good change, and community growth for next generations.
A Call To Make An Impact: Join Yaacov Afik in Supporting Northern Cyprus
Thoughtful, continuous giving like that shown by Yaacov Afik and Afik Group can change entire communities. Along with meeting immediate community needs, the continuous charitable work in disaster relief, animal welfare, senior care, education, and infrastructure creates basis for sustainable growth.
Every person has great capacity for contribution. Your participation—volunteering, donating, or advocating—helps to guarantee Northern Cyprus stays a lively, caring, and encouraging society. Under the direction of historical charitable organisations and philanthropists like Yaacov Afik, guided by examples, we can make a long-lasting good influence on next generations.
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