Suitcases and wheelchairs for those in need. © Kartik Das
Those in need have to fill out an application form that requires details like income, health conditions, family relationships after which they are subject to a visit from the Municipality which verifies their financial status.
With the municapility operating with a yearly budget of US$100 million, the Hayir Casiri is just one of the many projects that they run to sustain the region of Pendık. From setting up a regional library (Pendık Beledıyesı Kemal Tahır Kütüphanesı) to maintaining school buildings (Kırımılı Fazılet Olcay Anadolu Lısesı) and opening local parks (Bosna Park), the funds are directed solely to improving the lives of the diverse community that resides within the area. Water, roads, education and recreation all come under the responsibility of this municipality, which over the past years, has come to be recognised as the model for emulation in Istanbul.
The municipality logo. © Kartik Das
In an global environment where family values amongst youth are said to be diminishing in favour of the individualistic approach that is required for financial prosperity, this example is a heartwarming reminder that family is unequivocally important. The concept of a larger Aile is something that communities worldwide need to adopt. At youth congresses, continuity is often forgotten because of the complexities of the follow up projects. This however is a perfectly simple and feasible mechanism that will allow those in need to get the aid they require. The extravagant budget aside, the concept of taking the effort to coordinate and sustain a simple donation bazaar for the community is something this writer refuses to let pass by without accolade.
So if you have embraced the concept of Imece as was intended, take this as inspiration and try to better the lives of your extended Aile, regardless of language, race or religion.
