BİR SİVİL TOPLUM KURULUŞU: ZONGULDAK YARDIM SEVENLER DERNEĞİ (1941-1950)
A CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATION: ZONGULDAK CHARITABLES ASSOCIATION (1941-1950)

Summary/Abstract: In the Republic of Turkey, civil society organizations have played an active role in solving and integrating citizens' problems into society. Among these associations, Hilal-i Ahmer (Red Crescent), Himaye-i Etfal (Child Protection Agency), and Himaye-i Etfal Women's Aid Society (Turkish Association of Benefactors) have provided beneficial services to all segments of society. One of these associations was the Türkiye Charitables Association, which had branches and adopted the fundamental principle of providing assistance primarily to unemployed, poor, and widowed women. As stated in the association's charter, it was not established for political purposes and was engaged in hostel affairs and social welfare activities. Although the Republic of Türkiye did not participate in World War II, all branches, including Zonguldak, were mobilized to provide clothing to soldiers, particularly during the war years of 1939– 1945. This study presents the decisions taken and the benevolent activities carried out by the Zonguldak Association of Benefactors in the congresses held between 1941 and 1950. In the years in question, the association provided job opportunities to poor women by employing them in sewing workshops, provided social assistance to poor and needy citizens, and tried to raise national awareness by making propaganda to ensure that Turkish women avoided adornment and waste.

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