Location: Municipalities of Tirana, Kavaja, Kruja and Shkodra
Implementation period: November 2019 – February 2021
Funding: German Government, Nordrhein-Westfalen (Staatskanzlei NRW), ZF Hilft, Arcanum Stiftung
Total Budget: €137,411
Implementing partners: Plan & Go
Following the devastating earthquake of November 26, 2019, Help – Hilfe zur Selbsthilfe, with the support of the German Government and several partner organizations, implemented the project “Support to Albania After the Earthquake.” The initiative provided immediate humanitarian relief, supported reconstruction efforts, and strengthened the resilience and livelihoods of affected families and communities.
The project delivered humanitarian assistance and long-term recovery support to communities affected by the earthquake in Albania, focusing on emergency relief, reconstruction, and economic empowerment of vulnerable groups.
Key results:
- Two humanitarian aid caravans delivered emergency supplies (blankets, duvets, mattresses, sleeping bags, and hygiene items) to families in Durrës, Thumanë, Bubq, and Ishëm.
- Renovation of “Tre Dëshmorët” Kindergarten in Kavaja, upgrading the building’s basement, walls, and roof to provide a safe and improved learning environment for 200 children.
- 20 microbusinesses supported with subgrants and mentoring to restore livelihoods in earthquake-affected areas.
- 30 women and youth entrepreneurs in rural Tirana received training on business management and financial planning, improving their access to economic opportunities.
- Delivery of electronic devices and disinfection materials to institutions supporting national COVID-19 response efforts.
The project provided critical humanitarian aid to hundreds of earthquake-affected families, ensuring safe educational conditions for children in Kavaja and promoting the economic recovery of women and youth in the most affected communities. Through its dual focus on immediate relief and long-term resilience, the initiative contributed to rebuilding lives and restoring hope in post-disaster Albania.
