Background:

Harmattan in Kano state is characterized by a cool dry wind that blows from the northeast in the western Sahara, usually strongest during winter (late November to Mid-February), carrying along with a large amount of dust, with very low temperatures dropping to 12°C. This temperature comes with an array of health risks and hazards, which ranges from mild flu to life-threatening conditions like Hypothermia in babies. Poor and marginalized groups are the most affected during this season.

 

Proposed Solution:

An initiative that seeks to provide clothing and other winter protective materials for these poor and marginalized groups through awareness creation, crowdfunding, and donations of used or thrift clothing. The initiative will further go on to provide health promotion services through giving health talks to the beneficiaries.

An awareness campaign via social media will be launched at the start of the harmattan season putting out calls for donations in cash, used or thrift clothing items, and other harmattan-related relief items. After which donations will be distributed in cycles to the beneficiaries in public hospitals, orphanage homes, and other key structures that cater to the poor and marginalized groups.

Project goals:

· To provide clothing and other relief items to poor and marginalized population

· To create awareness of the methods and importance of protection against cold weather.  

2024 Reimagining:

This year (2024), we're revamping our approach to enhance community engagement and maximize our impact.  Here's how:

• 
  "Fill the Truck" Clothing Donation Fare: We're replacing the traditional drop-off system with a fun and interactive event featuring games, refreshments, and a "Weigh In, Win Big" system. Donated items are weighed, with each kilogram serving as a ticket for activities and raffle entries, incentivizing larger donations.


• 
  Goal: We're setting a target of collecting over 3,000 kilograms of clothing, toiletries, blankets, and other essential items to significantly benefit our beneficiaries.

 

Project Activities:

• 
  Community Outreach: Raise awareness through social media campaigns and partnerships with local organizations.


• 
  Clothing Drive Event: Organize the "Fill the Truck" Clothing Donation Fare to encourage participation and collect essential items.


• 
  Sorting and Distribution: Volunteers carefully sort and organize donations before distributing them to identified beneficiaries.

 

Project Impact:

• 
  Fulfilling Essential Needs: Provide clothing, toiletries, blankets, and other essential items to vulnerable populations throughout the year.


• 
  Promoting Community Engagement: Create a fun and interactive atmosphere for the "Fill the Truck" event, fostering community spirit and encouraging social responsibility.


• 
  Lasting Impact: Through consistent annual drives, aim to create a sustainable solution for meeting the needs of Kano's most vulnerable residents.

 

Building on Success:

The Kano hub successfully implemented this project in previous years, reaching over 600 people. Targeting was done to select beneficiaries giving priority to children, the sick, and the elderly. Six rounds of distributions were carried out at public hospitals, orphanages, the Kano Torrey Home, and prisons across Kano State. Over 600 people were provided with warm clothing and awareness talks during the project.

We leverage prior experience and volunteer support (21 volunteers recruited and trained in the previous year) to ensure the continued success of this vital initiative.

 

Looking Forward:

We're excited about the "Fill the Truck" Clothing Donation Drive and its potential to make a significant impact in Kano.

Stay tuned for updates on the event and our project progress!