Afghanistan’s past instability has left countless families without their main providers, creating a growing population of orphans and widows. Decades of conflict – and more recently, natural disasters – have resulted in many children losing one or both parents. Official figures indicate roughly 369,000 children have been orphaned and nearly 94,000 women widowed across the country. Nearly 24 million people (mostly women and children) now require humanitarian aid. Widows in particular face severe hardships, and with little or no income, these widowed mothers struggle to feed their children and keep them safe, underscoring the vulnerable position of female-headed households in today’s Afghanistan. Yet despite these challenges, Afghan communities continue to show resilience and faith, drawing on cultural values of perseverance and mutual support rather than seeing themselves as victims of circumstance.

In this context, the services provided by orphanages – shelter, education, and community care – have become a vital lifeline for many. Orphanages offer a safe roof and regular meals for children who have no other reliable support, filling the gap when extended family networks are overstretched by widespread hardship. They also ensure that these children receive an education and life skills, which is crucial for breaking the cycle of poverty and giving them a chance at a stable future. Just as importantly, an orphanage creates a caring community environment: children grow up with peers and mentors, preserving a sense of normalcy and belonging, even amid crisis. Widows benefit as well – knowing their children are in a secure place allows mothers some relief, and in some cases community organizations provide widows with opportunities linked to orphanage programs. The necessity of such support, and ultimately our core purpose, is reflected in deeply held Afghan values and Islamic teachings. Our Beloved Prophet ﷺ says "The one who looks after a widow or a poor person is like a warrior who fights for God’s cause, or like one who fasts during the day and prays all night". This spirit of compassion and responsibility underlines why shelter, education, and community support are not just services, but a lifeline of hope for Afghanistan’s orphans and widows in these difficult times.