Ankara, Turkey – An Ankara tradesman organized an iftar program for children under state protection, setting an example for the entire country. The event saw children experience grilling chicken wings at a Ocakbaşı before sharing an iftar meal together. Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş, Minister of Family and Social Services, attending the meaningful gathering, emphasized the need to spread this act of kindness, stating, “This is an exemplary model to be widespread across all of Turkey. Sharing these tables with children brings blessings.” Tarık Çiftçi, owner of Kanatçı Tarık, a restaurant in Sincan known for its delicious food in Ankara, who hosted the children, expressed his desire to raise awareness through the event.
A Heartwarming Iftar Event in Ankara
The iftar program, held in Ankara, brought together children under state protection and a local tradesman, Tarık Çiftçi. The event aimed to provide a special experience for the children during the holy month of Ramadan, fostering a sense of community and warmth.
Children Engage in Culinary Experience
During the event, the children had the unique opportunity to participate in preparing their meal. They were invited to the Ocakbaşı, a traditional Turkish grill, where they learned how to grill chicken wings. This hands-on experience was a highlight for many, offering a fun and interactive way to engage with the meal preparation.
Minister Göktaş Praises the Initiative
The event garnered significant attention, with Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş, the Minister of Family and Social Services, in attendance. Minister Göktaş commended the initiative, highlighting its importance and potential impact. She remarked, “This is an exemplary model to be widespread across all of Turkey. Sharing these tables with children brings blessings.” Her presence underscored the government’s support for such community-driven efforts to assist and uplift children under state care.
Expanding the Model Across Turkey
Minister Göktaş’s statement suggests a broader vision for similar initiatives. The Ankara event is seen as a blueprint for other cities and regions to adopt, encouraging local businesses and communities to engage with and support vulnerable children. The goal is to create a nationwide network of kindness and support, ensuring that more children benefit from such meaningful interactions and experiences.
Kanatçı Tarık’s Commitment to Community
Tarık Çiftçi, the owner of Kanatçı Tarık, expressed his motivation behind organizing the iftar. He stated that the event was organized to create awareness and encourage others to contribute to their communities. His restaurant, a well-known establishment in Ankara’s Sincan district, not only served as the venue but also provided the culinary expertise for the children’s grilling experience.
Impact on Children and Community
The iftar program had a profound impact on the participating children, offering them a memorable experience filled with joy and a sense of belonging. Such events are crucial for the social and emotional development of children under state protection, providing them with positive interactions and a supportive environment. The event also strengthened community ties, demonstrating how local businesses can play a vital role in social welfare.
Future Prospects for Similar Events
Following the success of this iftar, there is an optimistic outlook for future similar events. The encouragement from the Minister of Family and Social Services, coupled with the positive reception from the community, indicates a growing momentum for initiatives that support children under state care. The hope is that this will lead to more widespread engagement from businesses and individuals across Turkey, fostering a culture of compassion and generosity.
