More than just numbers

The figure listed in the foundation’s annual report under “Total direct project expenditure” is 1,794,645.25. It is composed of other figures. For example, 831,451.25 for “Domestic projects” and 860,313.47 for “Projects abroad”.

The funds were used in the 2023 reporting year to support “numerous social, charitable, and humanitarian institutions at home and abroad”, writes District Apostle Helper Thomas Deubel, the president of the foundation board. “Solidarity and Christian values are always at the forefront of all our work.” And that is exactly what the 2023 annual report emphasises. Behind the dry figures are real stories, people who have benefitted thanks to the spirit of charity.

Domestic figures

An amount of 10,000 francs, for example, stands for self-confidence in legal matters. This is because NAK-Humanitas supported the CSP (Entre social protestant) in the canton of Vaud, which offers free professional social and legal support to residents of this canton.

Another 5,000 francs, for example, benefitted people with dementia in an assisted living community. The money was used to buy a Crdl, a musical instrument that translates touch into sound and allows people with physical or cognitive challenges to experience moments of deep connection.

And 20,000 francs went towards children and young people who do not want to confide in their parents or friends in a difficult situation, but prefer to contact the 147 crisis support hotline, where they can talk about their mental distress with trained staff by phone, WhatsApp, or email.

Money that went abroad

In Tschébébé in Togo a good 50,000 francs benefitted people with disabilities. NAK-Humanitas is using the money to support a German organisation called MUT, which stands for participating and sharing, in setting up a so-called future workshop. Here, people with disabilities can make wood products and thereby cover some of their living expenses.

Eleven children and young people are currently living at Casa Pinocchio in Zăbrani in Romania. For them, an amount of just under 80,000 francs means that they can live there like a large family, go on an occasional excursion, and are provided with everything they need. NAK-Humanitas covers the operating costs of the children’s home run by the Church. The costs are not covered by the government.

And 20,000 Swiss francs is a small amount to support the rehabilitation and reconstruction work and provide the people affected by the earthquake in southern Turkey and northern Syria on 6 February 2023 with the basic necessities. The money went to Medair, which provides emergency relief efforts.

Where the money comes from

NAK-Humanitas received around CHF 1.7 million in 2023. A large proportion, even larger than in the previous year, consisted of non-restricted donations, which allowed the foundation to determine how to use the funds best. NAK-Humanitas received almost 45,000 francs from legacies. This was slightly less than last year. Restricted donations—mainly for emergency aid in Ukraine, daycare centre projects, and sponsorships—amounted to around 211,000 francs, which was slightly less than in the previous year. This is due to the fact that fewer direct donations were received for the war in Ukraine.

Thomas Deubel, the president of the foundation board, is very grateful for the many donations: “I have had several opportunities to visit projects supported by the foundation in Switzerland and abroad and was once again delighted to see that our work can achieve a great deal and make a difference.” He thanked all the donors on behalf of the board of trustees and the many people they have helped through their commitment for their trust and the solidarity they have shown.