Huma* (10), who was born with albinism, and her family were among the many affected by the devastating 2023 earthquakes in Hatay, Türkiye. Alongside the widespread destruction, Huma also faced daily challenges due to her visual impairment and the bullying she endured because of her appearance. With the holistic and child-centered support of Save the Children, Huma and her family have not only rebuilt their lives but also regained a sense of safety. Her story highlights the life-changing impact of inclusive humanitarian aid that recognizes and responds to the unique needs of every child.
In the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes in Türkiye, many families faced severe challenges. Huma*(10) born with albinism and her family had been living in tents in Hatay after the earthquake, but they were relocated to a camp before finally settling in a home. Huma one of her four siblings, had not only struggled with her visual impairment but also faced bullying due to her appearance.
Despite the difficulties, Huma remained a vibrant child, passionate about singing, drawing, playing, and spending time with her siblings. Yet at school, she struggled. The bullying continued, and her visual impairment made it nearly impossible for her to follow lessons on the board. The family struggled to find appropriate glasses for Huma*, even after multiple trips to Ankara, and some of the NGOs tried to support. However in the end the case was referred to Save the Children Türkiye, who were able to provide telescopic glasses, allowing Huma to study more effectively and reducing the challenges she faced in the classroom.
Before receiving the telescopic glasses, she struggled to see the board in class, especially in her earlier years. Her educational experience improved significantly when the glasses were provided, allowing her to better engage in her studies and physical activities, to read and study independently. Huma’s confidence has grown tremendously. She now proudly names The Little Prince as her favorite book and has even shared her dream of becoming an eye doctor one day—an aspiration born from her own journey of overcoming visual barriers and wanting to help others do the same.
Her older brother, 13-year-old Necip*, noticed a remarkable change. “Before, she couldn’t read or understand her lessons well,” he said. “Now, we can study and play together much more easily.”
Save the Children’s support went beyond addressing the child’s health and education. The family also received cash assistance, which allowed them to purchase essentials like food and clothing. Additionally, the children received Psychosocial Support (PSS) kits and winter clothes they could choose themselves from a catalogue—an experience that brought joy, normalcy, and dignity. Huma beamed as she shared how she picked out mostly purple clothes, her favorite color, and how excited she was while waiting for her new items to arrive. The toys in the PSS kits also helped strengthen sibling bonds.
Huma’s story is a testament to the power of integrated, child-centered support. With education, health, and psychosocial services tailored to their needs, children like Huma are empowered not just to survive, but to thrive. Thanks to holistic support from Save the Children, Huma and her family are rebuilding their lives with renewed strength, and safety.
*Names have been changed to protect identity.
