An incredible 80,000 children now have life-changing support, thanks to the continued growth of our orphan sponsorship programme. This year, we secured sponsorship for over 10,000 additional children. Our support for orphans, along with all our programmes, is underpinned by the work of dedicated safeguarding leads in every country who ensure that we follow best practice and procedures to keep vulnerable children and adults safe from abuse.

The regular stipend that orphans’ families receive meets their basic needs and enables them to go to school. Among those supported by the programme is 15-year-old Shyhrete, from Kosova. The teenager, whose father died when she was small, lives with her mother and two siblings. As her mother is in poor health the children help take care of their small farm and livestock, but it is a struggle to make ends meet. Islamic Relief orphan sponsorship meets their immediate needs, and helps Shyhrete work towards her ambition to become a professional footballer by covering essential expenses such as training and kit.

“I am one of the best players in my team,” says Shyhrete, who plays for a local football club and has been selected to represent Kosova internationally in the under-16 group. “I am very happy that I am realising my dream. I hope that in the near future I can give hope to others and help other people in need.”

Sponsored children often benefit from other Islamic Relief interventions, including food aid and support with accessing healthcare and education. In 2021 we also began a dedicated sponsorship fund assisting the children of Islamic Relief colleagues who have passed away.