Global Work

Supporting Families in Torbalı, Türkiye

 

Launched: 2019
Location: Torbalı, İzmir, Türkiye
Focus: Migrant seasonal agricultural worker families and children

 

since 2019…

Human Migration Institute (HMI) has maintained a steady presence in the Torbalı district of İzmir, where Syrian refugee families live in informal agricultural settlements. Our work focuses on one core belief: education is a pathway to stability, dignity, and long-term opportunity.

In Torbalı, many children face interrupted schooling due to displacement, language barriers, transportation challenges, and agricultural labor demands. HMI works directly within the settlement to help keep learning accessible and consistent.

 
 
 

2025 Impact Snapshot

  • Reached approximately 50 children (age 15 and under)

  • Delivered ~144 education sessions in 2025

  • Provided basic literacy and numeracy support

  • Facilitated creative and group learning activities

  • Served approximately 35 families and ~90 children under 18

  • Distributed hygiene supplies, clothing, shoes, blankets, and grocery cards

Through the consistent care of trusted community educators Ahmad Bey and Fatma Juma, children continue to access learning opportunities while families receive critical support.

 

  • The Torbalı settlement is not formally recognized, which limits consistent school access for many children. During 2025 field visits, HMI observed:

    • Extreme summer heat and harsh winter conditions

    • Inadequate clothing and footwear for many children

    • Limited access to clean water and hygiene resources

    • Ongoing barriers to regular school attendance

    Despite these challenges, children consistently show strong motivation to learn and participate when opportunities are available.

  • HMI focuses on consistent, relationship-based support inside the settlement. Our model includes:

    • Basic literacy and numeracy instruction

    • Arts-based and group learning activities

    • Essential family supply distribution

    • Regular field visits and needs monitoring

    • Culturally and linguistically aligned community educators

    This steady presence helps maintain trust, participation, and continuity in an otherwise unstable environment.

  • Children in Torbalı are eager to learn. With the right support, even small investments can create meaningful, lasting impact.

    You can help us expand consistent education and essential support for families in the settlement.

    • Children’s shoes and seasonal clothing

    • Notebooks, books, and art supplies

    • Portable shade and covered learning space

    • Monthly teacher and community liaison support


    Want to support? Donate at hmir.org/donate

 

Make a Targeted Gift

When you donate to HMI, you can direct your support to this global initiative.

Your support helps bring steady learning, dignity, and opportunity to children who are ready to thrive.

Looking Ahead

HMI’s next priority is establishing a container-based classroom within the settlement to allow for more consistent, weather-protected learning.

Every investment helps bring education closer to children who are eager to learn and build their futures.

 
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