About the foundation
From community charity in Damascus in 1960 to Qanawat Alkhier Foundation: a continuing story of perseverance, solidarity, healthcare, relief and development.
## A story rooted in neighbours helping neighbours
In Damascus in 1960, the community charitable work from which our story grew began to take shape. Local benefactors and families came together around a simple, lasting belief: people should be there for one another. That spirit shaped the journey of the Qanawat Neighbourhood Association, making solidarity a shared responsibility and connecting giving with people’s needs. Those beginnings remain at the heart of our mission as our work expands and circumstances change.
## As hardship deepened, our mission grew
Amid the difficult conditions the country experienced, access to healthcare became an essential part of the mission to help. In 2021, the health-work initiative emerged, opening a new chapter in supporting patients. Behind every medical need is a person who needs someone beside them. From consultations to procedures and operations, assistance is guided by the patient’s needs and a specialist’s report. The purpose remains to meet suffering with practical support.
## A new name, a renewed commitment
At the end of 2022, approval was granted to change the name from the Qanawat Neighbourhood Association to Qanawat Alkhier Foundation as a public-benefit organisation. The new name carried a history of community service and the responsibility to continue across relief, health and development. It marked another chapter in a journey of perseverance and giving, renewing our commitment to keep people and their needs at the heart of our work.
## The story is still being written
Today, we continue through food and clothing assistance, medical care, community work and development. Volunteers’ efforts, supporters’ trust and partners’ cooperation come together to turn the wish to help into work that touches people’s lives. Perseverance means continuing, listening to needs and seeking ways to help together. Everyone who gives time, skills or a contribution helps write another chapter in the story of Qanawat Alkhier.