The Popli Khalatbari Charitable Foundation is a UK based organisation that raises and subsequently distributes funds across a variety of causes and projects in Iran and around the world.

Following the Iranian earthquake of December 2003, a special "PKCF Bam Appeal" was launched with an initial contribution of £100,000 from the Foundation's capital funds. With thanks to the generosity and compassion of supporters from around the world, the balance of this Special Fund currently stands at £220,000 ($405,000) with donations continuing to be made on a regular basis.

Over the past 3 months, PKCF has carried out extensive research into the best possible utilisation of the funds it has collected and in conclusion recently determined to rebuild the Hakim Farabi Vocational School for 300 girls aged 13-18. Prior to the devastating earthquake, the Hakim Farabi was an exemplary school located in the centre of Bam and it seems highly appropriate, as well as symbolic, to use the funds to rebuild this commendable institution at the earliest possible opportunity. In addition to the reconstruction of the school, PKCF plans to build a dormitory for 100 orphans who are currently living with relatives as a temporary arrangement. It is hoped that construction on both these buildings will commence early April 2004.

As always with PKCF undertakings, the project will be funded and managed entirely by the Foundation and, wherever possible, suppliers and contractors will be sourced to work either voluntarily or 'at cost'. It is hoped that with such cooperation and generosity from friends, colleagues, supporters and affiliates, it will be possible to stretch every penny to its limits and achieve more with the collected funds.

It has been calculated that the total cost for the construction of both school and dormitory will be £300,000 which means that a further £80,000 needs to be raised to complete these projects over the coming months. If you wish to assist us with a contribution towards these projects, whatever the amount, your donation will be gratefully received.

For more information on PKCF or on making a donation, please visit www.pkcf.com.

... Payvand News - 3/26/04 ... --