Bakhdeda Wedding Crisis

On September 26, 2023, a tragic fire burned down a wedding hall in Bakhdeda, Hamdaniya, Iraq attended by around 1000 people including vendors. 133 people were killed. 32 were identified by DNA test due to the severity of the burns. 41 of the victims were children aged 0-12. 49 men and women became widowed. 9 children became orphaned after losing both parents. To date, we have responded with three rounds of medical aid, but more recovery is needed. We are advocating US government officials for additional funding and partnering with community organizations to maximize our impact. We will continue to share updates as projects are completed. Burn surgeries and mental wellbeing are the greatest priorities at this time.