Celebrating Pakistan Independence Day

This Pakistan Independence Day, we’re celebrating all things Pakistan. Every year for the past 75 years, on the 14th of August, Pakistan comes alive with a spirit of patriotism and unity; today marks the nation’s freedom from British colonial rule in 1947. As the nation and the world commemorates its past struggles as well as its achievements, we’re taking a look into our work with Pakistan over the years.

Today we celebrate the 1.5 million British Pakistanis who currently live in the UK, constantly strengthening the bond between Pakistan and Britain. Since our founding in 2009, Penny Appeal have directly supported 1.5 million beneficiaries across forty districts of Pakistan. Our projects such as Feed Our World, OrphanKind, and Adopt a Gran have freed hundreds and thousands of individuals from the shackles of poverty and hopelessness.

Thanks to the hard work of our Penny Appeal colleagues, partners on the ground, and the generous donations we receive, we have achieved incredible things and saved thousands of lives. 9,473 orphans have been supported through twenty-seven orphan homes in Pakistan, now with access to nutritious meals, healthcare, quality education, psychological support, vocational training and more. Penny Appeal have facilitated the construction of twenty-five schools, which have given thousands of children an opportunity to break the cycle of poverty of which they had no choice but to endure. 21,891 water handpumps have been installed, empowering entire communities with clean, safe drinking water, and 565,880 people have been supported through our Emergency Response appeal.

Independence Day in Pakistan is celebrated with great enthusiasm and pride. The festivities begin with the hoisting of the national flag at government buildings and public spaces. The colours, green and white symbolise the nations unity, with the crescent and star signifying purpose and light. Citizens across the country and those with Pakistani heritage around the world often wear green attire to display their patriotism.

As we celebrate the incredible things we have achieved in Pakistan, we must also be reminded of the ongoing struggles Pakistan is facing every day. Pakistan has faced years of devastating flooding and increasingly unpredictable weather systems. Such extreme downpour has shattered the hearts of many, destroying their homes and livelihoods in minutes. There are an estimated twenty million people who still require humanitarian aid in flood affected areas.

As the country of Pakistan celebrates its 76th birthday, we’re celebrating the incredible achievements we’ve made as well as the unbreakable bond between ourselves here in the UK and our brothers and sisters in Pakistan. From our family to yours, happy Independence Day!