FOUNDED IN 2010
"It all started with one child" - Amel Najjar
Since its inception, the Children of War Foundation has positively transformed the lives of more than 60,000 children and their families worldwide. Through our extensive network and grassroots efforts, we have continuously expanded our reach and impact. Although our work has evolved and grown, our core mission remains unchanged: to create a world where equitable healthcare and education are accessible to people regardless of geographical boundaries, financial means, or citizenship. We achieve this by connecting those in need with compassionate individuals who can make a difference.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world;
indeed, it's the only thing that ever does."
How It All Started
Established in 2010, the Children of War Foundation's mission began with the heartfelt desire to save one child's life. That child was 9-year-old Hashim from Baghdad, who suffered catastrophic injuries in the wake of war. In a coma for 55 days, he fought valiantly, enduring the loss of part of his skull and shrapnel embedded throughout his body, coupled with severe burn injuries.
Through the unwavering efforts of COWF's Founder, Amel Najjar, Hashim was transported to Children's Hospital Los Angeles. There, he embarked on a grueling 9-month journey of complex surgical care and rehabilitation. It was this dedicated and specialized care that offered Hashim a chance at life, an opportunity that wasn't available in his home country.
Over the years that followed, Hashim underwent an astounding 22 surgical procedures, including his latest one at the Farah Medical Campus in Jordan in 2018. Despite facing immense challenges, Hashim's unwavering spirit remained unbroken. In 2019, he celebrated a proud milestone by receiving his high school diploma and he is currently pursuing his studies in Istanbul, Turkey, where he is now a second-year university student with a focus on English. His aspirations lead him to dream of becoming a human rights lawyer. Fast forward to 2023, Hashim now resides in Turkey and continues to dedicate himself full-time to his university education.
To learn more about the Children of War Foundation or to meet Hashim, we invite you to reach out and connect with us. Together, we can inspire hope, heal wounds, and make a lasting impact.
OUR IMPACT
COWF'S EVOLVING MISSION SINCE 2010
Since 2010, and more recently amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, COWF has undergone a remarkable transformation. We have evolved from saving lives on an individual basis to taking the lead in driving systematic change by providing life-enabling healthcare and promoting equitable education. Our mission is crystal clear: to heal communities and uplift them through capacity building.
Through our extensive network and partnerships, COWF has positioned itself as a global force. We collaborate with healthcare professionals, innovators, educators, scientists, and various private, public, governmental, academic, and institutional entities from around the world. Together, we mobilize medical and educational exchange outreach programs to facilitate knowledge sharing and empower individuals. Our efforts aim to bridge gaps in inequalities, improve infrastructure, and enhance the lives of the less fortunate. Our ultimate goal is to reduce dependence on missions, foreign aid, and constant outside intervention.
At COWF, we are committed to making a lasting impact and fueling positive change. We transcend boundaries and borders, empowering and equipping communities to become productive and self-sustaining. We encourage economic participation while collaboratively working together to find healthy, knowledgeable, and sustainable solutions. Our team members, implementors, mentors, and mentees gain exposure to world-scale problems and have opportunities to join outreach programming in various fields and specialties.
