Islamic Philanthropy and Children's Human Security

This study examines how Islamic philanthropic practices contribute to selected dimensions of children's human security at the Aisyiyah Riverside Orphanage in Dau, Malang, Indonesia. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, data were collected through observations conducted during a three-month volunteering placement, informal conversations with caregivers, and supporting documentation, including internship logbooks, photographs, and available audio recordings. The findings reveal that Islamic philanthropy is implemented not only through institutional resource management but also through everyday caregiving practices. Coordination with LAZISMU facilitates the identification of institutional needs and the allocation of philanthropic resources, although the sufficiency and continuity of funding remain uncertain. At the level of daily care, philanthropic support is reflected in meal provision, supervised learning, religious education, online tutoring, and access to educational resources. Basic medication and occasional psychological assistance provide additional, albeit limited, health-related support. Meanwhile, regulations governing children's mobility, mobile phone use, and interactions with external parties represent preventive approaches to personal protection. Shared religious activities and household responsibilities also create opportunities for social interaction and collective participation. These findings demonstrate how Islamic philanthropic practices correspond to selected dimensions of children's human security through institutional arrangements and everyday caregiving. However, the availability of philanthropic support does not necessarily ensure the adequate or continuous fulfillment of children's needs. The absence of direct accounts from children, nutritional and academic outcome assessments, and sustained evaluations of psychological support limits conclusions regarding the actual outcomes of these practices. This study highlights the relevance of human security as an analytical framework for understanding the relationship between Islamic philanthropy and child welfare in institutional care settings.