380 Psychosocial Support Groups Providing Services in 190 Counties During Wartime

According to the Public Relations and International Affairs Department of the Welfare Organization, Salman Hosseini, head of the Social Emergency Center, stated that these psychosocial support groups are actively delivering assistance and support to people and neighborhoods affected by the situation.

He noted that these groups, particularly in the field of psychological support, operate through local health and wellness centers known as “Salam Mahalleh” (Hello Neighborhood) hubs.

Hosseini added that the Moheb crisis intervention teams of the Welfare Organization, consisting of 4,036 members, 1,146 teams, and 499 operational bases, have the capacity to cover the entire geographic expanse of Iran. These teams are now fully active in the current wartime situation, while the psychosocial support groups work alongside them to serve citizens at the neighborhood level.

Regarding the nature of these psychosocial support groups, he explained that the program is implemented by the Welfare Organization with the goal of capacity-building, empowerment, and development of local resources through community cooperation and social participation.

The main objectives of this initiative are to strengthen social participation and teamwork, raise public awareness, promote mental and social well-being, and prevent social harms through locally formed groups.

According to Hosseini, the “Psychosocial Support Volunteers” program is focused on local development by facilitating the formation of community-based groups that enhance civic engagement, develop local capacities, and empower individuals. It also serves as a platform for other qualified NGOs to expand citizen participation.

Additional goals of the program include fostering social capital, promoting social responsibility, and encouraging volunteerism within neighborhoods.

Hosseini concluded by emphasizing that the psychosocial support volunteers are local residents themselves, motivated by a desire to improve the mental and social well-being of their communities. By identifying local resources, planning, and carrying out activities, they actively contribute to the restoration and resilience of their neighborhoods.