Diyala volunteer turns small-donor drive into housing project for vulnerable families

DIYALA — In Bani Saad, southwest of Baqubah, volunteer Mousa Mahmoud has expanded a personal initiative into a housing project for orphans, low-income households and people with disabilities, with 28 homes under construction at a site called Watan Residential Complex.

The effort began as the “Campaign of 10,000 dinars,” a small-donation drive that funded food baskets and appliances before shifting to building homes. Contributions paid for a 25 million dinar ($17,800) plot of land for the complex. Each unit is 110 square meters with two bedrooms and a living room. Families are selected based on the absence of a breadwinner, chronic illness or disability, and overall financial need.

“We started the campaign four years ago with the idea of collecting 10,000 IQD ($7) from donors for humanitarian work. Initially, we distributed food and appliances. Then, we moved on to building houses, and so far we’ve completed 14 homes in various locations,” Mahmoud told 964media.

“We were approached by families without land or stable housing, so we launched a campaign on social media. The funds helped us buy the land and begin construction on the 28 homes,” he said.

Seven homes in the complex have been completed, five are occupied and two are ready for new residents in the coming days. Another four are under construction.

Among the beneficiaries is an Egyptian family that has lived in Iraq for more than 30 years. “I came to Iraq in 1989. Life before the complex was unstable due to rent and other expenses,” said Abu Ali, a resident. “The services in the complex are excellent, and brother Mousa supported us respectfully and fully.”

Another resident, Abu Mohammed, said, “I have no salary, and my living conditions are difficult with a large family. I thank the person who started this project for the poor and orphans.”

Mahmoud said the goal is to reach 100 homes. “We’ve passed 20 houses so far, both within and outside the complex. As long as there are generous people supporting us, we will continue,” he said.