Ibrahim* was just 7 months old when he lost both his parents in the devastating Al Haouz earthquake. Left with no one to care for him, he was taken in by his neighbours, but their own dire circumstances made it impossible for them to provide the care he needed.
That’s when SOS Children’s Villages Morocco intervened, offering Ibrahim not just shelter, but a new family. He was entrusted to Nawal, an experienced caregiver at SOS Children’s Villages who was already looking after five other children. In her home, Ibrahim found a place where he is secure, protected, and loved.
Nawal recalls the day Ibrahim arrived with deep affection: “We were all very happy and moved to welcome him because we knew his tragic story. The children were thrilled to have a baby in the house and all wanted to hold him.”
The earthquake, which struck Morocco on 8 September 2023, impacted at least 100,000 children, killing more than 2,900 people and injuring 5,500.
“Everything was in ruins, roads were cut off, and children were left alone amid the debris.”
Samya ElMousti
National Director of SOS Children’s Villages Morocco
Many children who lost their parents needed support. SOS Children’s Villages Morocco placed 120 children with temporary foster families, providing continuous monitoring to ensure their well-being. For those needing long-term care, such as Ibrahim, they were placed at the SOS Children’s Village Aït Ourir. Alongside Ibrahim, three other babies and a 15-year-old also received care at the village.
Initially, Ibrahim, weakened by malnutrition, observed his new surroundings with wide, curious eyes. However, thanks to Nawal’s attentive care and the affection of his new siblings, he gradually regained his strength. Today, Ibrahim is a different child: he has gained weight, his health has significantly improved, and he thrives in the loving environment of his new family. His siblings adore him, and his laughter now echoes throughout the SOS Children’s Village in Aït Ourir.
In addition to caring for children who lost parental care, SOS Children’s Villages Morocco provided humanitarian assistance, including food, water, clothing, and medical care, to more than 36,000 people in the aftermath of the quake. Over the course of the year, they rebuilt schools, set up modular classrooms, and provided both non-formal education and digital learning classes. Mobile teams also offered mental health support to address the overall well-being of thousands of children.
*Name changed to protect privacy