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Casablanca – On Wednesday 4, Jood ONG, a Moroccan non-profit organization, celebrated a groundbreaking achievement as it is recognized among the 50 global laureates of the “Global Innovation Challenge 2024.”
In a statement announcing the milestone, the organization said its dedication to tackling housing insecurity and providing innovative, sustainable solutions underscores its vital role in Morocco’s humanitarian landscape.
Half a million reasons to celebrate
Held at the Citi Bank Headquarters in Sidi Maarouf, the official ceremony awarded Jood ONG a $500,000 grant from the Citi Foundation.
This funding will bolster Jood’s efforts to provide permanent housing for families displaced by the earthquake, particularly those who have not received state assistance.
Taoufik Rabbaa, CEO of Citibank Maghreb, emphasized the bank’s commitment to community support. “We are proud to support Jood NGO in Morocco. This funding will contribute to building permanent housing for families affected by last year’s earthquake,” he stated.
“This initiative reflects Citi Foundation’s commitment to supporting these communities as they rebuild and recover, and ensuring they have a safe and secure place to call home.”
The event was attended by the U.S. Consul and leaders from Citi Foundation and Jood ONG, highlighting the significance of international support in addressing Morocco’s most urgent humanitarian challenges.
Global Innovation Challenge 2024“Jood’s mission has always been about restoring dignity and hope to those in need, and today’s grant brings us closer to fulfilling this mission on a larger scale,” the NGO’s president and founder, Hind Laidi, said at the event.
The U.S. Consul also spoke about the importance of cross-border partnerships in humanitarian efforts, saying, “Supporting local organizations like Jood ONG is essential in building resilient communities. Today’s event is a reminder of the power of collaboration in addressing complex challenges and creating lasting impact.”
Rebuilding lives, one brick at a time
The 2023 Al Haouz earthquake, a powerful 6.8-magnitude event, had devastating consequences, causing more than 2,900 deaths and displacing countless families.
Within days, Jood ONG mobilized a volunteer force of 6,080 individuals to provide immediate relief to those affected.
Efforts included distributing food, blankets, and medical supplies, while shower trucks and prefabricated homes were deployed to provide temporary shelter for families in need.
Through its “JoodVILLAGES” initiative, the organization has worked across 22 villages, creating 250 mobile homes and 55 sanitation units to serve thousands affected by the disaster
The ‘JoodVILLAGES’ Project
Beyond temporary relief, Jood has launched an ambitious project to build sustainable housing solutions.
In response to local authorities’ requests, Jood has identified 400 families in critical need of housing who were unable to secure state subsidies.
The “JoodVILLAGES” project aims to construct durable homes, tailored to withstand local climate conditions and incorporating eco-friendly materials and renewable energy sources.
Speaking about the project, Laidi emphasized: “Our objective is to provide stability and hope, ensuring that families can rebuild their lives with security and dignity.”
The project is set to impact over 1,250 beneficiaries across Al Haouz, incorporating community-specific architecture and sustainable design.
The power of Citi foundation grants
The Citi Foundation is actively engaged in initiatives that support housing security and community resilience.
Their recent grant to Jood will facilitate the organization’s transition from temporary to permanent housing solutions, addressing critical issues related to durable living conditions.
This aligns with the Citi Foundation’s broader mission to combat housing insecurity and promote community well-being.
In addition to supporting organizations like Jood, the Citi Foundation has announced its “2024 Global Innovation Challenge,” which aims to provide $500,000 grants to 50 community organizations that develop innovative solutions to homelessness.
This initiative underscores the importance of affordable and safe housing as a fundamental aspect of economic stability for individuals and families, particularly in light of the increasing rates of homelessness globally.
A win for Jood, a win for Morocco
Jood’s approach extends beyond housing.
The organization emphasizes social reintegration, economic opportunity, and access to basic necessities for its beneficiaries.
Through various programs, including job training and healthcare access, Jood is building a model for inclusive support that promotes self-sufficiency and dignity.
Laidi summarized this vision by saying, “We aim to create not just homes, but communities where every person can live with dignity and purpose.”
Home, hopes, and a $500K gift
With its new funding and continued international support, Jood ONG is poised to expand its impact across Morocco.
By addressing both immediate needs and long-term challenges, the organization is setting a benchmark for humanitarian aid in the region.
This event does not only celebrates Jood’s achievements but also reinforces the importance of sustainable and collaborative approaches to addressing housing crises and community rebuilding.
