Women’s Solidarity Provides Hygiene Kits to Wildfire-Affected Females
The "Sac de la Dignité" (Dignity Bag) initiative has launched a women's solidarity campaign to provide essential personal hygiene products to female victims of recent wildfires in Jijel and Béjaïa. This compassionate effort, spearheaded by the "Together Towards a Better Tomorrow" initiative, the Wassila (AVIFE) network, and the Algerian Feminist Newspaper (Le JFA), specifically addresses the unique needs of women and girls, ensuring the provision of necessities while safeguarding their privacy and dignity. The campaign initially focused on Jijel before extending its reach to Béjaïa.
The concept for "Sac de la Dignité" emerged from a concerted effort to understand the practical situation of women in the most affected regions. Following the initial shock caused by the wildfires, Farah Lina Chaboub, representing "Together Towards a Better Tomorrow," engaged with individuals in Jijel to assess the needs of the population. It was observed that, in addition to general requirements, women and girls faced difficulties in requesting personal hygiene items. Recognizing that the conservative nature of some areas caused embarrassment for women seeking these products, the initiative sought a method to meet these needs without causing discomfort or compromising privacy.
This understanding led to collaboration with the Algerian Feminist Newspaper, culminating in the launch of "Sac de la Dignité," which includes items specifically for women and girls. The initiative quickly garnered support from brands and private institutions providing women's underwear and hygiene products, with contributions from a growing circle of donors. The Wassila Network submitted official requests to companies for contributions, while the Algerian Feminist Newspaper managed logistics and preparation. Dozens of activists, advocates, and volunteers from various regions participated in the collective women's effort, dedicating hours to sorting, organizing, and preparing aid before its delivery. Economic institutions further supported the campaign by assisting with transport, strengthening the initiative's capacity to collect and distribute donations.
The first solidarity convoys departed for Jijel in early September, making stops in areas such as Aaffat and villages near Tahir to deliver aid, including to remote and mountainous regions. Organizers emphasize that solidarity must extend beyond the initial disaster response, particularly with the approach of the school year, as many families have lost homes, possessions, and livelihoods, and some children have lost family members. Consequently, the call for solidarity also includes providing school supplies and medicines, alongside other basic needs. Crucially, "Sac de la Dignité" prioritizes respecting the dignity and privacy of the beneficiaries, ensuring that aid is provided without exposing victims to photography or public display, thereby preserving the essential human aspect of the assistance.
