Families benefiting from Bornova Municipality’s Kent Butcher service came together at a solidarity dinner. Emphasizing that they always stand by the people of Bornova, Mayor Ömer Eşki stated that social support efforts will continue to expand. Due to the recent school attacks in Şanlıurfa and Kahramanmaraş, the music and entertainment parts of the program were canceled, and the event was held in a more modest format.

The dinner, organized for beneficiaries of the Kent Butcher service launched in Kızılay Neighborhood at the beginning of 2026, took place at the Şehit Er Adem Bilaoğlu Facilities İZBAŞ Wedding Hall. Mayor Ömer Eşki attended the event with his wife, Beste Eşki, and met with citizens.

A simplified program due to recent tragedies

Mayor Eşki noted that the event had initially been planned differently but was simplified in light of recent tragic incidents:
“It is very valuable to come together with you again, to chat and shake hands. However, the deeply saddening events that have occurred in our country recently have affected us all. In such an atmosphere, we did not feel it was appropriate to celebrate with music and entertainment.”

He also highlighted the growing social tension, pointing out that economic difficulties and living conditions have serious psychological impacts on people:
“Financial struggles, responsibilities, and feelings of helplessness can lead to deep emotional strain. But when children become part of such incidents, it hurts us even more and makes us question where we are heading.”

“Social support is our priority”

Stressing that supporting those in need is a fundamental responsibility, Mayor Eşki said:
“In our understanding, if you hold a public office, you must stand by those in need. Supporting the poor, retirees, and those left behind is not a choice for us—it is a responsibility. We are always by your side.”

He added that this approach stems from a strong cultural tradition of solidarity and that the municipality will continue implementing it with determination.

Support for more than 4,000 families

Through social support projects such as Kent Butcher and Kent Market, Bornova Municipality currently supports thousands of families. A total of 4,352 families benefit regularly—881 through the Kent Butcher Card and 3,471 through the Kent Market. Within the program, beneficiaries receive 1 kilogram of ground meat and 1 kilogram of cubed meat once a month.

More social projects on the way

Mayor Eşki announced that new initiatives aimed at improving quality of life in Bornova are on the way:
“We will establish more urban gardens, support more women, and expand toy libraries for our children. We will also move Bornova forward in transportation, infrastructure, and digitalization.”

He concluded by emphasizing unity and solidarity:
“There is a strong culture of solidarity in these lands. The people of Bornova deserve the very best, and we will continue working for that.”