Following the latest offensive on September 19, 2023, Azerbaijan took military control of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh).  This triggered a mass exodus of ethnic Armenians from their homes. Presently, Armenia has received over 100,000 refugees, constituting the Artsakh's entire population after the war of 2020.

The goal of this initiative is to meet the urgent needs of the most vulnerable 300 families of Artsakh refugees by extending socio-economic support and relief. Shen NGO Board decided to prioritize families with certain criteria, aiming to provide them with agricultural animals (chickens, sheep, cows, beehives), small agricultural tools, seeds, fuel, seedlings, and other essentials based on the unique needs of each beneficiary family. This support will enable families to sustain themselves with adequate food.

The project envisions creation of foundations (through the provision of necessary resources) for the formation of sustainable livelihoods for 300 Artsakh refugee families. Focusing on agricultural empowerment, livelihood creation and community-led initiatives, the rehabilitation and community involvement of displaced Artsakh families will be assured.

In addition to the individual support program mentioned above, it is planned to implement community programs in 40 rural settlements, where there is a relatively large concentration of refugee families from Artsakh. This project will be implemented using a community-led socio-economic recovery approach. These programs may include various initiatives jointly chosen by the community and refugee families, such as economic empowerment programs, infrastructure improvements, capacity building, social programs, etc.