IMPACT AREAS
SOCIAL & ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT

THE CHALLENGE
Despite periods of economic growth, Türkiye continues to grapple with deep and persistent social and economic inequalities. Poverty affects 14.4% of the population, with children disproportionately impacted—one in three grows up in poverty compared to 17.2% of adults. Economic instability and high inflation have pushed more families into hardship, forcing many children to leave school to work. Income inequality is widening: the top 20% of earners take home nearly half of the nation’s income, while the poorest 20% receive less than 6%. Although poverty rates fell from over 20% in 2007 to 7.6% by 2021, recent economic shocks have reversed progress, leaving marginalized communities with limited access to decent work, sustainable livelihoods, and the resources needed to break the cycle of poverty.

WHAT WE DO








READY TO TAKE ACTION?
Strong Pedals empowers adolescent girls in post-earthquake Hatay by providing bicycles, creating opportunities for mobility, independence, and outdoor activity. Your support helps these girls gain freedom, confidence, and safe spaces to play, socialize, and thrive despite the ongoing challenges of displacement and recovery.
Social & Economic Development$1,524 USD / $10,000 USDHelp young minds in Bolu discover entrepreneurship early. Your donation builds skills that last a lifetime and strengthen the community.
Social & Economic Development$0 USD / $100,000 USDNo child should be left behind. The Afghan Refugees Solidarity Association (ARSA) is ensuring that refugee children in Turkey have the tools they need for education. Through the No Child Left Without a Backpack campaign, we provide school bags filled with stationery, uniforms, and tutoring support—helping children thrive academically and build a brighter future.
Social & Economic Development$0 USD / $170,000 USDEvery child deserves a childhood filled with learning, health, and hope. Yet thousands of children in Turkey are forced into labor, missing school and essential opportunities for growth. The OKI and HIJI Project gives these children a second chance. Each child receives two backpacks: OKI backpacks filled with school supplies to reconnect with education, and HIJI backpacks containing hygiene essentials for healthy development. With your support, we can reach 250 children, helping them return to school, regain confidence, and reclaim their rights to a happy and healthy childhood.
Social & Economic Development$0 USD / $10,000 USDMany young graduates in Türkiye, especially from second-tier universities, struggle to find paid work after finishing their studies. Limited internships, scarce networks, and lack of career guidance leave talented youth with few opportunities. Esas Sosyal’s programs provide scholarships, mentorship, training, and internships to help first-generation university graduates gain skills, experience, and confidence to secure meaningful employment. With your support, more young people can overcome barriers, find work they deserve, and build brighter futures.
Social & Economic Development$27,356 USD / $35,000 USD

STORIES


































