Iraq: Turkish aid body opens clothing center for needy

By Mazin Majeed Asaad Baqal

ERBIL, Iraq

Turkish aid organization opened Wednesday a clothing center to help those in need in northern Iraq.

The center was built by the Turkish Red Crescent (Kizilay) with support of Iraq’s Red Crescent and a Turkish firm in Erbil province.

Opening ceremony of the center -- called “Shefkat Boutique” -- was attended by Hakan Karacay, Turkey’s consul in Erbil, Nawzad Hadi, Erbil’s governor, Utku Akbas, head of the Turkish Red Crescent in Iraq and many other guests.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Karacay said the center will distribute clothes each week to families in need.

“After completing necessary coordination with Turkish Red Crescent, needy families will come to this center and meet their own needs,” he said, adding: “This project is not limited to a week or a month, it is a continuous project.”

The center would initiate some other aid activities in the coming days, said Karacay.

He detailed that it would give away food, heater and personal care items to families living under tough conditions during winter time.

Also speaking to Anadolu Agency, Akbas said that the project set an example for the region.

Some 20-25 needy families would benefit from the center in certain days of the week, he added.