The Algerian social services, known as Direction de l'Action Sociale (DAS), have undertaken several initiatives to support vulnerable populations in Tizi-Ouzou during the month of Ramadan. According to Mehenni Achour, head of DAS in Tizi-Ouzou, the organization provided financial assistance to 34,877 families in need, listed in a file managed by the commune services. This aid was distributed to all eligible families, with over 17 billion centimes allocated for this operation.
In contrast to previous years, the DAS provided financial assistance of 6,000 DA to eligible families instead of food parcels. The lists of beneficiaries were approved by the communal popular assemblies through deliberations. The operation was carried out smoothly, despite some initial delays in implementation, particularly with regards to financial management by the financial controllers. The DAS also reported that 80 million dinars were allocated from the wilaya budget for this operation.
The DAS also opened 44 "Rahma" restaurants during Ramadan, which were inspected by the wilaya technical commission to ensure compliance with hygiene and safety standards. These restaurants were supported by various associations, the Algerian Red Crescent, and benefactors. Additionally, the DAS distributed clothing and other items to orphans and the destitute, using an envelope of 1 million dinars allocated for the Eid celebration.
The DAS has also taken steps to support people with disabilities, including those who are 100% handicapped, and families with low incomes. According to Achour, the DAS has implemented a mechanism to identify eligible beneficiaries, which was instructed by an inter-ministerial decree. The organization has also provided support to families through various programs, including the distribution of clothing and shoes to 180 beneficiaries.
In addition to its Ramadan initiatives, the DAS has a program to support homeless individuals in Tizi-Ouzou. According to Achour, the organization has identified over 40 cases of people living on the streets and has provided them with assistance, including clothing and shelter. The DAS has also worked to reintegrate these individuals into society, with some being placed in specialized institutions or returned to their families.
The DAS is also planning to establish a regional center for women in distress in Tizi-Ouzou, with a study already completed for 5 million dinars. This center will provide better support for this vulnerable group. Furthermore, the DAS is preparing for upcoming operations, including summer camps for disadvantaged children. This year, a center was opened in Tadmaït, which will host 100 children and has been allocated an envelope of 9 million dinars.
The DAS has clarified that refugees, including Syrians and Africans, are not currently included in its solidarity operations, as this falls under the responsibility of the Ministry of the Interior. However, the Algerian Red Crescent is involved in providing humanitarian aid to these groups through a center in Zéralda. The DAS continues to provide support to various populations throughout the year, with a focus on promoting social solidarity and alleviating poverty.
Key points
- - 34,877 families in need received financial assistance in Tizi-Ouzou during Ramadan. - The DAS allocated over 17 billion centimes for this operation, including 80 million dinars from the wilaya budget. - A new regional center for women in distress is planned for Tizi-Ouzou, with a study completed for 5 million dinars.
