Somali-Led. Community-Rooted. Humanitarian-Driven.
About Us
WHO WE ARE
The Somali Relief Network of North America (SRNNA) is a Somali-led humanitarian charity registered in Canada. We deliver essential support to communities in Somalia affected by drought, poverty, and displacement, while continuing to uplift Somali families living across Canada.
Our leadership understands the realities of the communities we serve. This ensures our work is culturally informed, needs-based, and grounded in long-standing trust.
Vision statement:
A future where Somali families everywhere can live with stability, access essential services, and uphold their dignity and cultural strength.
OUR MISSION
To life-saving assistance and community support to vulnerable families in Somalia, guided by dignity, compassion, and responsible humanitarian practice.
Our History
SRNNA was established in 1993 by Somali professionals and volunteers in North America who recognized the urgent need to support families affected by conflict, drought, and economic instability in Somalia.
What began as a small, community-driven effort has evolved into a recognized humanitarian organization with:
- Over 114 trained staff in Somalia across multiple operational departments
- A strong governance and management team in Canada
- Dedicated field offices in Hargeisa, Burao, and Erigavo
- A respected presence in both humanitarian response and community development sectors
Over three decades, SRNNA has:
- Delivered education, health, and protection services in vulnerable regions
- Supported Somali families through multiple drought emergencies
- Invested in climate adaptation and agricultural training to build resilience
- Expanded Canadian programming for youth, seniors, and newcomer families
- Maintained continuous outreach with Somali diaspora communities to sustain aid and advocacy
From its early grassroots roots to today’s structured humanitarian operations, SRNNA has remained committed to one central principle:
Supporting Somali families with dignity, compassion, and responsible action.
What Makes SRNNA Different
SRNNA’s difference lies in how we work, guided by values that are lived out in every program, every decision, and every partnership.
- Dignity & Community First: We serve every household with respect and ensure communities lead the solutions shaping their future.
- Amanah (Trust & Responsibility): Every donation is a trust. We use resources transparently, ethically, and with strong financial accountability as a registered Canadian charity.
- Somali-Led & Locally Informed: Our leadership, staff, and partners understand Somali culture and community realities, ensuring culturally grounded and relevant support.
- Evidence-Based Humanitarian Practice: Programs are informed by real community assessments and partner reporting, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most.
- Professional Standards You Can Rely On: We follow global humanitarian principles of safety, impartiality, and quality program delivery, backed by monitoring, policies, and audits.
These principles shape how we operate and the confidence donors place in us, making SRNNA a trusted, responsible humanitarian partner for over 30 years.
Our Work
SRNNA focuses primarily on humanitarian assistance in Somalia, supporting families during emergencies and helping them rebuild with stability.
In Somalia, our work includes:
Food support for families facing hunger
Emergency relief during drought, floods, and displacement
Full orphan care including education, housing, and health
Education support for children and youth
Healthcare and social assistance for vulnerable individuals
Family livelihood training to strengthen long-term resilience
Support for women and girls through protection and awareness initiatives
In Canada, we also provide:
Food distribution and social support
Youth mentorship, engagement, and summer employment
Settlement and newcomer integration assistance
Cultural and educational programs
Active living programs for seniors
These services help Somali families feel safe, supported, and connected — wherever they live.
Our Impact
SRNNA’s impact is the result of long-term trust, community knowledge, and program consistency.
In Somalia:
- Thousands of families access food assistance and crisis support each year
- Children receive full care through our orphan boarding program including housing, education, health, and nutrition
- Youth benefit from school support, safe learning environments, and encouragement to stay in school
- Women and girls receive awareness support on protection and health
- Households affected by poverty and displacement gain access to livelihood and environmental training
In Canada:
- Somali families receive settlement, housing navigation, and social assistance referrals
- Youth participate in employment programs, mentorship, sports, and skill-building activities
- Seniors engage in activities that prevent isolation and encourage healthy living
- Community events, cultural programming, and workshops promote belonging and identity among the Somali diaspora
Transparency, Accountability & Partnerships
We recognize that every donation is a trust (amanah) — and we uphold the highest standards to protect that trust.
Financial and Program Accountability
- Registered Canadian charity with CRA compliance and formal reporting
- Annual audits, program monitoring, and due-diligence with all partners
- Strong organizational policies covering HR, anti-harassment, safety, risk management, and data protection
- A committed Board of Directors overseeing governance and strategic direction
Our accountability systems ensure that funds are directed to verified programs and aid reaches intended beneficiaries responsibly and efficiently.
Who Supports Our Work?
Our funding comes from:
- Individual donors across Canada and the Somali diaspora
- Youth-led community fundraising initiatives (BBQs, car washes, lemonade stands, etc.)
- Ramadan fundraising drives and major seasonal campaigns
- Partnerships with community organizations, mosques, and local businesses
Partnerships That Strengthen Impact
Our network of collaboration includes:
- Local humanitarian organizations, schools, and clinics in Somalia
- Somali civil-society coalitions focused on:
- women & girls’ protection
- education improvement
- environmental resilience
- HIV/AIDS awareness and health promotion
We also engage with Canadian municipal and community groups to support social services, youth programs, and newcomer integration.
These partnerships allow SRNNA to operate with:
- Real-time local insight
- Safe and ethical delivery standards
- Trusted community access
Accountability, transparency, and partnership are not only our obligations — they are the foundation of every successful humanitarian intervention we deliver.
Contact Us
Learn More About Our Work in Somalia
If you have questions about our food, water, education, or emergency relief programs, we welcome your inquiries.
Our team is here to provide clear information and help you understand how SRNNA supports communities across Somalia.
- 15 Club Golfway, Unite 3C, Toronto, ON, Canada, M3C 3B1
- 3200 Kempt Road, Suite 216, Halifax, NS, Canada, B3K 4X1
- + 252 907747494
- info@SRNNA.com