As we approach the one-year mark since the devastating earthquake in Morocco on September 8, 2023, we would like to share an update on our relief efforts.
WHAT WE DID
NEF, with support from Islamic Relief USA, ran a cash transfer program to assist households affected by the earthquake in the El Haouz and Ouarzazate provinces. The goal was to help people meet their immediate needs and support those who weren’t eligible for government aid.
WHY WE DID IT
Although we don’t traditionally provide emergency aid, NEF has worked with the areas hardest hit by the earthquake, so we knew we could provide aid quickly.
HOW IT WORKED
We focused on the five hardest-hit areas: Talat n’Yaacoub, Amghrass, Tidili, Telouat, and Ouirgane. After assessing the most vulnerable households, we selected 600 families:
- 300 families received $750 in two payments over two months.
- 300 families received a one-time payment of $550.
The first payments were made from March 7 to April 17, 2024, and the second payments from May 5 to June 1, 2024.
WHAT WE FOUND
Better Food Access: 92% of the people we surveyed reported that their food situation improved. Initially, only 7% of families were able to have 2 to 3 meals a day, but this number rose to 83% by the end of the program.
How the Cash Was Used: Families used the cash for various needs, including:
- Medical expenses
- School fees for children
- Paying off debts to local shopkeepers
- Covering transportation costs
- Repairing damaged homes
Additionally, some families used the money to buy essential items like blankets, kitchen supplies, and hygiene products, which improved their living conditions.
THE ROAD AHEAD
Overall, this cash assistance has been crucial in helping families cover their basic needs and reduce stress. However, providing financial support for livelihood recovery remains our priority for long-term recovery and resilience.
With the support of IRUSA and crowdfunding, NEF has recently identified an additional 550 households who will benefit from this innovative cash assistance program. This includes supporting:
- Access to basic or cold weather needs for 400 households
- Shelter rehabilitation for 95 households
- Livelihoods recovery for 25 new households
- The recovery and training of 30 skilled artisans who can then rehabilitate the homes of vulnerable households
This project is being implemented with the generous support of the Islamic Relief USA. The views expressed herein are those of Near East Foundation and shall not, in any way whatsoever, be construed to reflect the official opinion of IRUSA, its Islamic Relief affiliates, or its donors.
