Egypt currently houses between 8 and 9 million refugees from 133 countries. Beyond the staggering numbers, it is important to remember that they are not just individuals, but also mothers, fathers, daughters, sons, and entire families seeking to build a future for themselves and their loved ones.
Over time, a dynamic landscape of independent organizations and non-profits has emerged to meet the needs of Egypt’s refugee population. Driven by both refugees and non-refugees, these organizations share a common goal: to rebuild the shattered foundation of stability for those who have been displaced from their homes.
According to Egyptian Streets, these organizations’ impact extends far beyond material gains; they provide a sense of hope in the face of despair and an unwavering determination to rebuild.
Here’s a list of organizations and businesses to support and empower refugees in Egypt:
Zeit Zeitoun
Zeit Zeitoun is one of Cairo’s many refugee kitchens and restaurants established by Syrian refugees. The founder, Lina Kassah, moved to Egypt in 2013 with her husband and three children, shortly after the Syrian Civil War began.
Zeit Zeitoun is a community-driven cooking project that bridges the gap between financial vulnerability and a sense of belonging. This initiative generates large quantities of food for catering services by pooling resources and labor, empowering individuals in need, and actively promoting a sense of community inclusion.
Threads of Hope
Threads of Hope, founded in 2017 by home linen company Malaika Linens, represents a trailblazing collaboration between business and social impact. Threads of Hope provides comprehensive embroidery and beading training to refugees and migrants, empowering them with marketable skills and securing employment in Malaika’s workforce.
However, the impact goes far beyond financial: Threads of Hope provides a safe haven by offering psychosocial support, focused group discussions, and trauma awareness sessions, fostering resilience and wellbeing.
Hopes For the Future
It is a community school founded in 2019 by Amal Rahal, an architect who left Sudan for Egypt in 2018. The school offers Sudanese students opportunities for economic empowerment and cultural preservation.
Sudanese children gain a crucial connection to their cultural heritage through their home country’s curriculum, which provides a sense of normalcy and belonging in a foreign land. In addition to UNHCR school supplies, it is entirely funded by the initiative’s funds.
Hopes For the Future also empowers Sudanese women through traditional beading techniques, not only preserving cultural heritage but also promoting economic independence. This initiative promotes cultural expression while also providing women with valuable skills and business opportunities, allowing them to contribute to their families and communities.
Abwab Elkheir Foundation
Following the war on Gaza, the Abwab Elkheir Foundation quickly mobilized to provide immediate assistance to stranded Palestinian families and students in Egypt. Their prompt action provided a lifeline to those experiencing displacement and financial hardship.
They offer financial assistance to Palestinian students who are unable to pay their tuition fees, particularly in light of the economic consequences of conflict. Recognizing the fundamental importance of shelter and sustenance, the foundation provides rent assistance to families who cannot afford housing as well as emergency aid to meet basic needs such as food and healthcare.
Abwab Elkheir also promotes self-sufficiency by providing vocational training programs and microfinance opportunities, empowering people with the skills and resources they need to build a better future.
Dawar Kitchen
Dawar Kitchen, a social enterprise focused on empowerment, community, and culinary heritage, is located in Ezbet Khairallah, one of Cairo’s largest informal settlements. Dawar Kitchen, founded in 2018 as a sub-organization of Cairo-based NGO Dawar for Arts and Development, promotes dignity and resilience by providing refugee and Egyptian women with opportunities to rebuild their lives through food production and catering.
Dawar Kitchen offers dignified employment and valuable skills training in catering and food production, allowing women to achieve financial independence. The kitchen celebrates both Egyptian and Syrian cuisine, passing down traditional recipes and techniques while incorporating local flavors and ingredients.
Dawar Kitchen also hosts workshops and cultural events to celebrate heritage and promote personal growth. This holistic approach addresses both physical and emotional well-being.
