Amid the frenzy of curating gift guides and celebrating the little luxuries that often slip by unnoticed, it’s worth hitting pause to reflect on what truly matters. This year, the region has been rocked by profound devastation, leaving many grappling with the weight of injustice and inhumanity endured by countless people. For some, it feels impossible to carry on with the day-to-day, knowing others are facing unimaginable circumstances in Palestine, Sudan, Syria, and beyond, that no one should ever experience.
Sure, a luxurious gift guide is cool—but let’s take a moment to confront the privilege we bask in daily while, just across the border, harsh realities unfold. In this spirit, we’ve reimagined the gift guide. Instead of indulgence, think, impact. Here’s how you can channel your generosity into meaningful action, giving back to the communities that make this region so extraordinary.
Sudan Cairo Aid (SCA)
SCA works tirelessly to support Sudanese families in Cairo. The charitable non-profit assists with rent, medical bills, and provides essentials like food, medicine, and shelter. Check their Instagram to see how you can help.
Sudanese American Physicians’ Association (SAPA)
Founded in January 2019, this non-profit supports Sudanese physicians in the U.S. and extends aid to healthcare organizations in Sudan. They foster education, collaboration, and humanitarian support.
Network for Palestine
This grassroots network of Cairo-based mothers helps families arriving from Gaza. They provide resources to rebuild lives, ensuring safety and stability. They’ve been collecting Eid packages for these families.
Gaza Kinder Relief
This coalition works globally to support, evacuate, and provide resources to injured children in Gaza. Their primary goal is to address urgent cases, ensuring the well-being of children affected by conflict.
Road to Freedom
This non-profit provides immediate aid to refugees, including food, clothing, and hygiene kits. Working with NGOs and charities on the ground, they ensure direct aid to those in desperate need. Since 2015, their volunteers have been fundraising and distributing aid professionally and humanely.
Alight
With over 1,000 members, Alight strengthens Sudanese communities by investing in healthcare, clean water, and nutrition programs. They focus on sustainable change through peacebuilding, social cohesion, and economic development. Their primary healthcare clinics and nutrition programs are vital in improving living conditions.
Heritage for Peace, Sudan – Sudan Heritage Protection Initiative (SHPI)
Sudan, with its rich history and World Heritage sites, faces threats from ongoing conflicts. SHPI raises awareness and safeguards Sudan’s cultural legacy. They document damages, develop protection networks, and foster international collaboration to preserve Sudan’s heritage.
MATW Project
MATW Project is a distinguished Muslim charity dedicated to supporting those in need within the Islamic community through donations. With a commitment to a 100% donation policy, MATW Project ensures that every penny contributed by donors directly benefits the intended causes, spanning from humanitarian aid to developmental projects. The organization’s transparent and efficient approach in handling donations maximizes the impact on the lives of recipients.
One Nation
One Nation is a UK-based relief and development charity which has continued to support local and international relief projects to help improve lives. The non-profit responds to emergencies in countries where humanitarian support and assistance is required, providing emergency food aid, clean water, medical aid, clothes, shelter, and the development of self-sustainable projects.