Panah Children Charity News

Home to Home Run for Children in Need

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 13:45:53 GMT

Kamran Hashemi is a Trustee of Panah Children Charity, who joined the charity in October 2018 following his 2017 cross country “300 Km, from Persian Gulf to Caspian Sea trek” challenge, raising funds for the children in need.

Kamran completed a further two challenges for the charity since, “Mount Damavand Climb” in August 2018 and “London Landmark Half Marathon” in August 2021. This would be his fourth, and the hardest challenge ever and we are looking forward everyone supporting him.

The objective of this unique challenge is to raise awareness and funds for the children who have no voice and little future, without YOUR and OUR support.

Kamran says:

"My challenge is to complete a 6000km run across 16 countries to raise funds for children's causes. This challenge will take me all the way from my home town in England to my place of birth in Iran. I’ll be setting out on this challenge in July 2022 and shall be running a marathon on my active days and 15km on my rest days. If all goes well, I should complete my run by December 2022.

On my route, I shall be passing through 16 countries: beginning in England, then France, Belgium, Luxemburg, Germany, Austria, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Moldova, Ukraine, Russia, Georgia, Armenia and finally Iran.

My goal is to team up with one children’s charity in every country in my route and to gain support amongst their citizens and raise funds for each one of these local children charities."

Please support Kamran by your donations through the dedicated JustGiving link .

Stay tuned for further updates...

Sponsor a Child

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 13:38:57 GMT

Supporting Deprived Children and Families

We have rigorous checks in place in order to make sure donations reach children or families most in need. As these needs can vary, we set up a plan best suited to the child or family in need. Funds to support children or families are raised through monthly-sponsorships or one-off donations.

Most often, donations are spent to support children's education. We make sure that the child being sponsored is doing well in their studies and can truly benefit from the sponsorship programme.

Our child sponsorship programmes aim to support children directly, however we also educate families so that they can further support and encourage their children to make the most out of this opportunity. Additionally, donating towards a family would provide food for the family on a monthly basis.

Playground in Lorestan ( Progress)

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 21:10:13 GMT

We have been campaigning to raise £5,000 to open a play area for the deprived city of Roomeskan in Lorestan ( see here ).

We are happy to report that with your help, great progress has been made. Please see the photos below.

There are still work to do. For donation please go to this project's justgiving page or by clicking on the original page here .

printers and optical pens donations

Sat, 09 Jan 2021 16:58:20 GMT

Project Name: Donation of two Canon printers and three optical pens

Date: December 2020

Description :

Two Canon printers and three parblo optical pens were donated by the Iranian Children's Charity for the use of Chaghabel education schools in Romeshgan city of Lorestan province.

A4 paper donation for textbooks

Sat, 09 Jan 2021 16:49:12 GMT

Project Name: Donating A4 papers to Education Department in Chaghabel city of Lorestan province.

Description :

This project was purchasing and donating A4 papers and providing it by the Iranian Children's Charity to prepare a textbook for school students who did not have the facilities for educational use in cyberspace.

Birthday Party

Sat, 09 Jan 2021 16:31:48 GMT

Maryam Ahmadvand's birthday party was held on 10/18/1399 at the request of the Iranian Children's Charity. Her gift was prepared at her own request, which was a pair of leggings and a small bag for girls.

The ceremony was performed with a short celebration accompanied by Maryam's cousins with cakes, snacks and sandwiches.

Donating Tablets to students with disabilities

Fri, 01 Jan 2021 15:09:05 GMT

Tablets were donated to four student children in Sarabeleh and Shahid Keshvari towns in Kermanshah province, Borujerd in Lorestan province, and Pakdasht in Tehran province. They urgently needed these tablets for their online school lessons during the Corona pandemic. Three of these students have physical and motor disabilities ( in the hands and feet).

The total cost of the tablets was approximately £450.

Run for a good cause

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 12:44:10 GMT

RUNNING A MARATHON FOR A GOOD CAUSE

You can join the London Landmarks half marathon 2021 in support of our Children In Need. Please contact info@panahchildren.org for more details.

Help fund a new playground in Lorestan

Sun, 18 Oct 2020 19:37:11 GMT

Help fund a new playground in Lorestan

Disability Empowerment Meeting

Sat, 27 Jun 2020 12:06:36 GMT

Disability Empowerment Meeting

A meeting was set up by Panah and attended by other NGOs including, The Duchenne Kavir Charity for children suffering from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), members of a campaign group supporting Amputees (arms and hands), Tehran Health Club for boys and other volunteers. The aim of the meeting and this group was to cooperate in and be effective in education of children and their carers in prevention, treatment and aftercare for the disability sector.

We hope an effective step is taken forward in the field of prevention, treatment, and education in these areas by means of the cooperation between these groups and the formation of different task forces.

Duchenne Campaign

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 23:58:37 GMT

How Donations will Support Children with DMD

Mobility assistance – including exercise, physiotherapy, physical aids and accessibility arrangements for schools and communal areas.
Support groups – to deal with the practical and emotional impact of DMD for children and families
Surgery – to correct postural deformities, such as scoliosis
Medication – such as steroids to improve muscle strength, or ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers to treat heart problems
Training - educational campaigns for the public, guardians, families, healthcare professionals, teachers, social workers and dieticians to optimise the care give to children
Diagnosis - examinations, blood tests, electrical tests on nerves and muscles or muscle biopsies.
Treatment - provision of community clinics for specialist paediatric neurological physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and occupational therapy. Access to urgent medical aid and supplies.

We are working alongside Duchenne Persia, set up by Iranian filmmaker Sohrab Kavir. We will be screening Kavir's documentary about Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in Iran, "Game On" at the London Film School (date to be confirmed). All profits from the screening, along with donations from the Duchenne Campaign will go towards helping children with DMD in Iran.

What is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy?

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is the most common and severe form of muscular dystrophy, present from birth. It usually affects boys from early childhood. DMD is characterised by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. Over time, this causes increasing disability. The mutations are often inherited from a person's parents. Hence, if there is a family history of DMD, early diagnosis of developing the condition and appropriate physical and psychological support could improve the quality of life and mobility of a child. There is currently no known cure for DMD. However, a variety of treatments can help manage the condition, and help with the physical disabilities and problems that may develop.

Quality of Life and Life Expectancy

Although the average life expectancy of children with DMD in Europe, America and Canada is 28 years, with some Duchenne adults reaching 30-40 years of age, this is not the case in Iran. In Iran the the majority of children with DMD have a life expectancy of teenage or early 20’s. Many children with DMD in Iran deteriorate rapidly in the early stages of the condition, due to a lack of access to physiotherapy and occupational therapy to maintain mobility. These children progress to immobility and dependence much earlier, experience increased rates of chest and urinary tract infections, emaciation, limb contractures, fractures and the spinal distortions that can lead to earlier cardiac and respiratory failure. When their families are no longer able to care for them, children with DMD are often moved to inadequately resourced institutions, where they may die alone and unattended at night- usually as a result of respiratory dysfunction and subsequent respiratory or cardiac failure.

The progression of the condition can be slowed with access to early diagnosis, early initiation of physical and pharmacological treatment, good nutrition and access to technology to support cardiac and respiratory function. When children with DMD

are supported by good physical, psychological and

social healthcare they are able to live longer, have an improved quality of life and lead much happier and productive lives.

If supported and catered for their needs, children with DMD can stay engaged and thrive in life because they are intellectually able despite their physical disabilities. This involves the training and support of those involved in their day-to-day lives, and the provision of necessary adaptations and equipment to improve access to schools and communal activities. In Iran, children with DMD from disadvantaged communities are often denied access to education because of their poor health, the lack of facilities to cater for disabled children in schools and the inability of parents to safely transport them there. Poor families struggle to provide even the basic needs of children with DMD.

"Game On" by Sohrab Kavir

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 23:57:44 GMT

Announcement of the date and sale of tickets for the screening of "Game On" at the London Film School will be announced shortly. Thank you for your patience.

Iranian filmmaker, Sohrab Kavir's family was completely devastated by the loss of three of Kavir's brothers to the inherited familial form of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, the most severe, fatal, genetic disorder diagnosed in early childhood. Kavir was particularly close to his youngest brother Davood who died in very distressing circumstances. Davood’s death left Kavir severely traumatised by survivor’s guilt which unrecognised had huge implications on the course of his life.

Kavir subsequently moved to the UK, where he had the opportunity to meet with Matin, a young Iranian child with DMD who shared his brother's passion for football. That was the catalyst for what would become an 8-year documentary project. As Kavir got to know Matin and his family, he became aware of the health and social care resources available to children with DMD in the UK, compared to Iran. He soon realised the huge significance and implications of this disparity for Iranian children with DMD.

Mr Sohrab Kavir, Director of "Game On".

Matin was a very successful player in the UK Power Wheelchair Football League and was additionally a skilled online football player. Matin particularly impressed Kavir with his incredible drive and ambition to overcome his disability and pursue his love of football.

Synopsis

Sohrab Kavir’s film, “Game On” begins as an idea to arrange an international online football tournament between Iranian and English Duchenne children but soon develops into a cathartic journey that enables Kavir to focus his grief and his passion for film-making on bringing the plight of the Iranian Duchenne children to the attention to a worldwide audience.

Kavir returns to Iran to find players for the Iranian Duchenne online football team and his travels take him across the country where he meets Duchenne families from all socioeconomic backgrounds. He listens to their stories and comes face-to-face with the harsh day-to-day reality of a life without the medical treatment, social and financial support that so many of us take for granted.

"Game On" emphasises not only the tragedy, inequality and injustice of such short lives but ultimately the resilience, optimism and determination of the children, the love of the families for each other and the amazing resourcefulness of Iranian people in the face of incredible hardship. It highlights a system that does not recognise the rights of a child with a disability to have equal access to education and healthcare, and most importantly to have the opportunity to fulfil their dreams and ambitions in the precious time they have. Most importantly Kavir’s film is a testament to how granting even small wishes can mean the entire world to a child and how the memories of the people we love can become a powerful force for driving forward change.

Kavir continues to campaign along with his sister Mitra to improve the lives of Iranian DMD children in the memory of their three brothers.

How Donations will Support Children with DMD

Mobility assistance – including exercise, physiotherapy, physical aids and accessibility arrangements for schools and communal areas.
Support groups – to deal with the practical and emotional impact of DMD for children and families
Surgery – to correct postural deformities, such as scoliosis
Medication – such as steroids to improve muscle strength, or ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers to treat heart problems
Training - educational campaigns for the public, guardians, families, healthcare professionals, teachers, social workers and dieticians to optimise the care give to children
Diagnosis - examinations, blood tests, electrical tests on nerves and muscles or muscle biopsies.
Treatment - provision of community clinics for specialist paediatric neurological physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and occupational therapy. Access to urgent medical aid and supplies.

Set-up A JustGiving Fundraising Page

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 21:11:26 GMT

An easy 4-Step Guide, on how to Create a Fundraising Page for Panah Children Charity on JustGiving

STEP 1. Log in to your JustGiving account, and click on 'Start Fundraising' (as pointed by the red arrow), in the top bar of your home page.

STEP 2. If you want to raise charity for Panah, click on 'A charity'.

STEP 3. Type 'Panah' in the search-bar, and select the charity shown in the image below.

STEP 4. Now for the interesting part! Pick what you will be doing, out of the options provided. If you are taking part in a Panah event, then pick 'Taking Part in an Event'.

There are also national upcoming events listed below, you can join any of the events, represent and raise funds for Panah. The rest is just filling out any details JustGiving asks for!

Hopefully this helps you get started! If you have any questions, you can always write to us.

Sand Snow Sea Expedition

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 15:55:37 GMT

Every year we take part in a group charity expedition, trekking the sand, snow and sea through Iran. Dates for expedition to be announced . This is to raise funds for children in need and support the work of Panah Children Charity. You can join, sponsor or donate to this campaign - your donations will go straight towards providing support to children that desperately need your help.

This is a perfect challenge for moderately fit individuals wanting to experience an adventure and meet new people, whilst helping a great cause. Anyone is welcome to join us!

You will be accompanied by our experienced trekker and English-speaking trustee Kamran Hashemi.

Along the way you will see beautiful mountains, wildflowers, a salt lake, the desert, the sea and more. A versatile and adventurous expedition for those willing to take part.

Cost

We don't believe that costs should stand in the way of this exciting opportunity. We only ask that you raise donations of £350, all of this amount will directly go towards charitable projects that support children in need. We support and encourage all participants to fundraise this amount. We can help you set up online fundraising pages on JustGiving, and show you how to ask for support from friends, family, colleagues etc.

In addition to this donation, you will pay for your personal costs such as travel, accommodation and food. We can send you links to good airlines and cheap prices, however it is your responsibility to book the flights to Iran yourself (approx. £450 per person). We will help and advise you with any queries or support you need. This expedition takes place in Iran, so the costs should be relatively low. The cost of transfers, hotels and food are equally shared between the group (approx. £350 per person for the whole expedition).

Itinerary

Dates for the expedition are to be announced.
Get in touch with us if you'd like to be updated on expeditions we plan in the future.

Day 1: Arrive in Tehran. Transfer from Airport to Semnan (3 hours). Rest in hotel until midday. Then transfer to Dameghan (2 hours) and explore the historic town including 2300 year old Tarikhaneh Temple and Tepe Hissar, the prehistoric site, etc. Overnight stay in hotel.

Day 2: Transfer to Aligholi Salt Lake (2 hours) to begin the challenge. Explore the area and then trek to Khoors and Khargooshi sand dunes (4 hours). Camp the night in the desert, under the stars.

Day 3: Trek to Chesme Ali springs (6 hours). Overnight stay in a cottage.

Day 4: Trek up the mountains to Chahrdeh village and then to Chamaan Savar meadows in the mountains (8 hours). Overnight stay in tent.

Day 5: Trek through the Alborz Mountains to Jahan Nama village (7 hours). Overnight stay in a cottage.

Day 6: Trek down the mountains and exolore the unique and lush Hyrcanian Forests to Shast Kola to complete the challenge (6 hours). Transfer to Bandar Gaz for dinner by the Caspian Sea.
Overnight stay in hotel in Gorgan.

Day 7: Explore the bazaar and old quarters in Gorgan in the morning and flight to Tehran in the afternoon. Dinner in Darband by the river. Overnight stay in hotel.

Day 8: Transfer to the airport for the return flight in the morning.

Trip Extras

Iran is a stunningly beautiful country with a unique history. We encourage participants to add a week of independent travelling onto their expedition, to properly experience the country once you have a feel for the culture and language. You can experience Iran's hospitality, see the capital Tehran, cultural city of Esfahan, visit famous palaces, museums, explore the traditional old-market bazaar and create an unforgettable experience. We are happy to help you book trips and expeditions, or wave you off independently- the choice is yours.

If you are interested in signing up or would like more information, please contact us using the form below. We would love for you to join us on this adventure!

Children's Play Area for Flood Victims in Agh Ghalla

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 11:37:50 GMT

Dear supporters,

Having raised well over £2,200 through efforts of various groups and individuals for the recent flood victims, it is a pleasure to report back to you on the progress.

Our trustees immediately entered communications with Helal Ahmar (Red Crescent), as well as establishing links with the local ministries of Gorgan and Kermanshah Provinces, to coordinate any primary needs for the affected areas. However, it was advised that all the primary needs were being addressed and the best and most effective use of this fund would be to build a permanent children’s play area for one of the affected areas .

Agh Ghalla is one of the flooded cities in Golestan province and following our trustee’s site visit to the area, a location for a new play ground has been selected and plans drawn up.

We believe that our collective efforts will have a permanent effect on supporting the children of this area.

Above are photographs and a plan for the playground, which has been approved by the local stakeholders.

Mount Damavand Expedition

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 21:31:00 GMT

Join or donate to our charity-expedition to Mount Damavand, the highest volcano in Asia, and raise funds for children in need.
Dates for the expedition to be announced.

Photographs of the Damavand Expedition in 2018, to raise funds for Panah Children's Charity.

Summary

We are taking part in a group charity challenge to climb Mount Damavand (5671m) and raise funds for children in need. We will be climbing the highest volcano in Asia, to support the work of Panah in helping those in desperate need of our help, including street children, kids with HIV and the ones in care-homes.

While the training for this climb has been tough and it will be a gruelling 4 day challenge, it is such a fantastic opportunity to raise a lot of money for a great cause.

You can sponsor us or donate to this campaign - your donations will go straight to provide support to the children that desperately need your help.

Climb Mount Damavand & Explore Persia

You can take part in climbing the summit of Damavand - given that you are able to raise a minimum of £250 to donate to Panah Children Charity, which will go to children in need. You will also have to pay for costs of travel and accommodation. You will be accompanied by our experienced, english-speaking team, who have climbed the summit before, and we can suggest cheaper accommodation options suggested by locals.

After the climb you can experience Persian hospitality, see the capital city Tehran, visit famous palaces, museums, explore the traditional old-market bazaar and create an unforgettable experience.

If interested, please contact us using the form below. We would love for you to join us!

Backpack Project

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 20:54:59 GMT

During September-October 2018, Panah Children's Charity donated more than 1,000 school-bags and stationery to underprivileged students in 14 schools, in 6 different counties; including Alborz, East Azerbaijan, Hormozgan, Kohgiluyeh BoyerAhmad, Kermanshah, Sistan and Baluchestan.
Fundraising from: Damavand Expedition 2018.

Alborz

East Azerbaijan

Hormozgan

Kermanshah

Kohgiluyeh-Boyer Ahmad

Sistan - Baluchestan

HIV Prevention Educational Programme

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 17:35:49 GMT

Here are the workshops Panah has organised in order to educate street and working children on HIV prevention #EnoughPain

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Workshop 18: 2nd September 2018

Objective: To educate street and working teenagers between 12 and 18 on HIV prevention.
Fundraising from: #EnoughPain Campaign
Duration: 3:00pm – 6:00pm
Venue: Nikookaran Sharif Charity Foundation, Tehran
Number of attendees: 22 Boys
Participating Organisations: The National Health Ministry (HMI) and Nikookaran Sharif Charity Foundation