Multi-purpose cash assistance for COVID-19 affected IDPs, returnees and host population households in Mosul city

Donar: OXFAM

In response to the economic impact caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the curfew measures that led to the loss of income sources, a humanitarian intervention was implemented targeting 98 displaced and returnee families in Al-Kalwat area, on the right side of Mosul city, who were severely affected by the economic downturn.

Preparatory steps began on 27/1/2021 through coordination with religious leaders and the local Mukhtar to present the beneficiary selection criteria and form a community-based committee to ensure transparency. On 30/1/2021, the project was officially announced in the area.

On 16/2/2021, 12 community volunteers were trained on data collection mechanisms and the use of the CCI digital system to assess household vulnerability levels. Between 23/2 and 25/2/2021, data were collected from 200 families based on specific criteria, including: being displaced or returnee families, having no source of income, consisting of at least five family members, residing in Al-Kalwat area, with priority given to families including a person with disability or female-headed households.

On 5/3/2021, data analysis resulted in an initial shortlist of 120 families. Following a review meeting with the local committee and detailed discussions, 98 of the most vulnerable and poorest families were selected.

On 15/3/2021, distribution cards were issued to each selected family for a grant amount of 960,000 IQD, including verification and anti-fraud measures. On 16/3/2021, 98 cash grants were distributed, totaling 94,080,000 Iraqi Dinars.

Post-distribution follow-up showed tangible impact. Five families were able to restart small businesses that had collapsed during the lockdown. Among the success stories, one female breadwinner resumed her small clothing trade and purchased new goods to support her six children. Another beneficiary family used the grant to purchase cancer treatment for the father, who had been unable to afford medication due to the loss of income during the curfew.

This intervention demonstrates that timely and well-targeted cash assistance can make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable families, enabling them to cope, recover, and regain stability after health and economic crises.