Bosnia’s Elderly Survivors Receive Lifesaving Support from Zakat Foundation of America

October 27, 2025 

In the quiet hills of Srebrenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina, a place once marked by unspeakable pain, compassion now thrives. Decades after the Bosnian War (1992–1995) tore families apart and left deep scars across generations, the Srebrenica Nursing Home stands as a living testament to resilience, humanity, and hope. 

This remarkable facility is the only independent, non-state-owned nursing home in the entire country, a haven for those who have lost everything yet still deserve dignity and care in their final years. 

A Home Built on Humanity

The Zakat Foundation of America is honored to support the vital work being done at this extraordinary nursing home. Its mission is simple yet profound: to provide shelter, food, and compassion to 500 elderly and ill residents who have no family or means of support. 

Many of these residents are survivors of the Bosnian War, people who endured the horrors of displacement, loss, and isolation. Others are elderly individuals who, though spared the violence, now face the quiet struggles of poverty and loneliness. 

Through generous donations and humanitarian partnerships, this home has become more than a shelter; it is a sanctuary of hope. 

“I have been living in the nursing home for almost five years,” says Selim Grbović, 81. “The people who strive to make our days easier and more pleasant are doing their very best. This donation means a lot to us residents, and we are very grateful to the Zakat Foundation of America.” 

Extending Care Beyond the Walls

The compassion flowing from this home does not stop at its doors. Every day, the nursing home’s kitchen prepares and delivers meals to 350 elderly individuals in Srebrenica who live alone, unable to cook for themselves due to age or severe financial hardship. 

For these elderly men and women, a warm meal delivered daily means far more than nourishment; it is a reminder that they have not been forgotten. 

To sustain this life-changing work, the Zakat Foundation of America recently provided essential food supplies, including chicken, potatoes, beans, corn flour, carrots, spices, and salt, enough to prepare three meals a day for four months. Each meal is a gesture of care, faith, and solidarity. 

Stories of Strength and Gratitude

“I lost two sons during the war, and my husband passed away eight years ago,” shares Nurija Musić, 79. “I am ill and have no close relatives. I am grateful to the Zakat Foundation of America for donating the food supplies we use every day. Thank you for thinking of us, and I hope you will continue to support this nursing home.” 

Behind each meal, each smile, and each prayer is a powerful truth: compassion can heal even the deepest wounds of history. 

Keeping the Spirit of Srebrenica Alive 

The Srebrenica Nursing Home operates entirely through donations from humanitarian organizations and generous individuals. Together, we are ensuring that 850 people, both residents and those served at home, are cared for daily with dignity, warmth, and love. 

In a town once synonymous with sorrow, a quiet revolution of kindness is taking place. With your support, Zakat Foundation of America will continue to help this beacon of hope shine brightly, transforming tragedy into compassion and loss into love.