Goodwill Caravan, a non-profit humanitarian charity, is redefining the meaning of refugee protection. From providing emergency aid distributions to Gaza and sheltering the most vulnerable, to offering legal and medical support for refugees in the UK and Greece, this organisation is a beacon of hope amidst the challenges faced by those seeking safety and a new beginning. eniGma’s team had the opportunity to chat with the founder of Goodwill Caravan, Hanan Ashegh, to delve into the depths of this transformative initiative, as we uncover the incredible story behind its inception and the power of collective action.
Once upon a time, in the year 2015, Hanan Ashegh, a young psychologist, felt a calling deep within her heart. She had stumbled upon an article that sent shockwaves through her being. It spoke of 165 unaccompanied children who had mysteriously vanished from a refugee camp in France. Ashegh couldn’t believe her eyes. Driven by a burning desire to uncover the truth and make a difference, Ashegh made a daring decision. With determination in her eyes, she hopped into a manual van, not particularly fond of driving it, and embarked on a journey towards Calais.
The road ahead was uncharted, for the camp’s location remained a secret, hidden away by the French government. After visiting a warehouse and encountering a guy desperately screaming words that nobody seemed to understand. “We’re hungry,” he cried out. With caution, she followed him, pretending to be part of the media so that they wouldn’t ransack the whole van. Unable to ignore the dire circumstances, Ashegh was desperate to do more than just observe. Before leaving the camp, she carefully gathered more staff for the refugees. As she was going through the camp, the sun was setting. There were fires in the camp and the smoke was all over, and there was no light due to the lack of electricity in the area. She caught two kids hiding behind an abandoned car and so she followed them to a caravan, a Goodwill caravan. That’s the story behind Goodwill Caravan and how it materialised.
When questioned about the purpose behind the Goodwill Caravan, she replied with a captivating response. She emphasised that the organisation’s mission goes beyond politics and religion, as they firmly stand as a beacon of humanity. The Goodwill Caravan is solely dedicated to uplifting the underprivileged, especially those who have experienced the harsh reality of forced displacement. They are united in their commitment to support the underdog, provide aid to refugees, and defend those who are susceptible to exploitation due to their displacement.
In the spirit of compassion and solidarity, amidst the turbulent times plaguing the Palestinian people, a tale of courage and assistance unfolds. United by a common purpose, Goodwill Caravan joined partnerships with the Egyptian Red Crescent and Sunna El Kheir, weaving a tapestry of aid destined for Gaza. On this heartfelt journey, they chose a path less traveled, opting not for fleeting moments of relief, but rather a sustainable solution. With determination in their hearts, they meticulously procure the essential items that will restore a glimmer of hope to the Palestinian population. Among their emissaries of support are the solar power banks, whispering promises of illumination even in the darkest hours. These potent devices, laden with mystic energies, shall ignite the lives of the Palestinian people, granting them the power to charge their vital lifelines – their phones. Because, in this interconnected world, the power of communication must never falter in the face of adversity. “Palestine is in my blood,” Hanan Ashegh exclaims.
If you are looking to make a difference and to volunteer with Goodwill Caravan to help those in need, you can email them at http://goodwillcaravan.com. Goodwill Caravan has an array of relief projects for you to choose from, so you have the power to make an impact where it’s needed most. They focus mainly on Gaza, the Afghan project and an orphanage in Pakistan dedicated to Afghan refugees and orphans.