About Norooz Charity Foundation

Our History

Founded in 2003 by philanthropist Bahman Maalizadeh, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, and run by volunteers, Norooz Charity Foundation has expanded its relief operations to Iraq, Jordan, Turkey, Pakistan and India.

"Norooz" means "a new day" in Farsi — a name that reflects our hope of bringing a fresh start to those who have lost everything.

Who We Help

We assist refugees coping with the consequences of rape, imprisonment, torture, oppression, shunning and discrimination, as well as barriers such as lack of access to education, unemployment, poverty and language difficulties. Many of those we serve are single mothers and children. Applicants may be registered with the UNHCR (United Nations Refugee Agency) or have asylum cases that are denied, delayed, or under appeal.

Our Impact

We have distributed tens of containers of food, clothing and medical supplies, and provide nutritional, medical, legal, educational and financial support to needy families and individuals. Beyond direct relief, we engage in advocacy via a weekly television program.