About us
For the animals of Izmir since 2012
A small association from Bensheim, long-standing partners on the ground – and hundreds of animals cared for every day.
Why we exist
In 2012 animal lovers from Bensheim founded the association to support the Sopen Gazi shelter near Izmir. Animal rescuer Nebiha Deprem had built it in 2005 – at times it housed up to 3,000 dogs.
What we have become
After Nebiha’s death in 2018 the city of Izmir took over the shelter. The association changed its focus: instead of a shelter we now support street and forest animals directly – through people on the ground we have known for years: Hatice, Meltem, Ender.
Our people in Izmir
Your donation works through people who care for the animals every day. Here are a few of them.
Many rescued dogs now live with her – and every day she feeds the forest dogs.
Rides his scooter to 30 feeding stations every day – and founded the Haydost association in Karsiyaka.
Gives around 200 cats a safe home in the middle of the forest – free and sheltered.
Cares for the dogs at Hatice’s day after day – feeding, grooming and plenty of cuddles.
Our people in Germany
Board and team in Bensheim: names, roles and photos to be added by the association (with photo consent).
What matters to us
Transparency
Monthly food orders and donor lists are published. The tax-exemption notice is public.
Direct help
No administration, no middlemen. 100 % of donations go to Izmir.
Local structures
We strengthen people who are already there – instead of building structures from outside.
„All creatures of the earth feel like us, suffer and die like us – so they are our brothers.“
Support our work
Since 2012, volunteer-run, with long-standing partners on the ground.