Kazim’s Warmth in Winter – Kabul, Afghanistan

In the bustling yet harsh streets of Kabul, Kazim’s journey is one of quiet endurance. Having lost his father two years ago, his mother became the sole provider for him and his siblings, struggling to afford even life’s most basic needs. 

The arrival of winter brought an additional burden. Kazim’s thin jacket was no match for Kabul’s bitter cold as he walked early each morning to his Quran classes, his hands tucked under his arms in a desperate attempt to stay warm. His mother’s heart ached knowing she couldn’t afford to protect him from the freezing temperatures. 

That changed when The Zahra Trust’s winter clothing program provided the family with much-needed relief. Kazim’s mother felt a wave of emotions—gratitude, relief, and happiness—when she learned her son would receive warm clothing. 

“I couldn’t afford warm clothing for Kazim this winter and felt ashamed,” she said. “When I learned about the program, I was overwhelmed with happiness.” 

The moment Kazim received his new winter jacket and trousers, his joy was undeniable. 

“Kazim was so excited to receive his new clothes. He eagerly waited for the day to come so he could collect his jacket and trousers. He even told me how he would proudly show his new clothes to his friends,” his mother shared. 

For Kazim, these clothes were more than just a necessity—they symbolized comfort, confidence, and hope. With his new jacket, he no longer feared the cold, allowing him to focus on his studies and embrace his daily routine with newfound energy. 

His mother, deeply moved by the impact, reflected on this transformation: 

“Kazim no longer worries about the cold. He can focus on learning with confidence and comfort.” 

Kazim’s story is a reminder of the hardships faced by orphans and vulnerable families in Afghanistan’s harsh winters. More importantly, it is a testament to the profound impact of timely, compassionate aid, proving that even a single winter jacket can change a child’s life.