Nuzaira Azam
WASHINGTON DC: The Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, praised Helping Hand for Relief and Development (HHRD) as a model humanitarian organization, as it announced a $5 million Recuperation and Rehabilitation Package to support ongoing relief and recovery efforts for Pakistan’s devastating floods.
“Pakistan today is among the countries most severely impacted by climate change,” Ambassador Sheikh said. “It is incumbent upon all of us to serve our motherland to the best of our abilities. HHRD stands out as a bright example of community-led humanitarian action, and I urge all Pakistanis and diaspora organizations to follow its lead in supporting our people.”
The announcement was made at a press conference attended by Javaid Siddiqi, CEO of HHRD, Ambassador Sheikh, representatives from the Muslim Public Affairs Council, community leaders, media outlets, and HHRD Pakistan’s leadership team via Zoom.
Mr. Siddiqi stated:
“Pakistan is facing a humanitarian catastrophe of historic proportions. Our $5 million intervention is a lifeline, but the magnitude of this crisis demands more. With the support of generous donors, we will expand our relief efforts and stand in solidarity with the people of Pakistan and all communities in need around the globe.”
Since late June 2025, HHRD has provided emergency relief to over 62,000 individuals across 13 flood-affected districts, including Sialkot, Swat, Gilgit Baltistan, and AJ&K’s Neelum Valley. Efforts have included mobile clinics, water filtration systems, search and rescue teams, food aid, hygiene kits, and psychosocial support for children through SMILES Boxes. HHRD committed to broadening its interventions in the coming weeks.
Dr. Mohsin Ansari, Chairman of HHRD’s Pakistan Oversight Committee, highlighted the organization’s legacy.
“HHRD is one of the largest NGOs working in Pakistan, investing $10-12 million annually in both relief and development. After the 2022 floods, we exceeded our $15 million pledge by investing $17 million, aiding over 2 million Pakistanis with housing, healthcare, livelihood support, and long-term projects, including the ongoing $60 million Neurological & Rehab Institute in Karachi.”
Ambassador Sheikh underscored the climate change crisis:
“Pakistan contributes very little to global emissions, yet we are one of the hardest-hit nations – facing unseasonal rains, melting glaciers, and devastating flash floods not seen in decades. The urgency of collective action is clear, not only for Pakistan but for humanity’s shared future. This is an area where Pakistan and India should collaborate for global good.”
HHRD reaffirmed its mission to deliver both short-term relief and long-term development without discrimination, serving communities worldwide in their most critical times of need.
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