Syrian Refugee Crisis
Since conflict erupted in Syria in early 2011, many families have been left with little choice but to flee or risk their lives. The number of Syrians seeking refuge in neighbouring countries has grown to over 1.4 million. Our feature story is that of Yasmin, 4, whose family now calls a park bench home.
How you can help:
Donate: Syrian Refugee Crisis
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What's happening now?
Host countries, many facing domestic challenges of their own, are stretched.
With no immediate end to the conflict in sight the children who have fled Syria face an uncertain future in temporary housing, not knowing if they will ever return to school or a normal life.
Abysmal living conditions and a lack of basic necessities are further troubling these families, who have experienced more than most of us could imagine.
World Vision's response
World Vision’s work in Jordan and Lebanon reaches refugees staying in camps and among host communities.
We aim to assist some 282,000 Syrian refugees in Lebanon and Jordan by:
- Distributing blankets, warm clothing, fuel for heating and cooking and personal hygiene kits
- Implementing food voucher systems in partnership with the UN World Food Programme that enable the purchase of food items in local shops, to contribute to the local economy
- Operating Child Friendly Spaces to provide refugee children with social and emotional support and a safe environment to play and learn
- Supporting children aged 9-14 years with daily catch-up classes and a fast-track learning program so they can keep up with their education
- Improving access to water, sanitation and hygiene within camps.
Neighbouring countries are feeling the pressure of thousands of refugees crossing the border daily. World Vision is currently providing assistance in Lebanon and Jordan to help those who need it most.
Background information
As of 6 May 2013, the United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, reported that Lebanon was hosting 455,665 Syrian refugees and Jordan 448,370. As a result of the influx Syrian refugees now make up 10 percent of the population of Lebanon and have increased Jordan’s population by six percent.
The majority of Syrian refugees are living outside camps, often with host families. As more seek refuge, overcrowding and competition for shelter grows.
Host families often have very limited resources and they are being placed under immense strain. Those refugees who are not staying with host families are living in makeshift accommodation, such as garages, broken down buildings and other shelters with no heating.
It’s estimated that children make up around 60,000 of the Syrian refugees in Lebanon. Many of these children have lost family members and homes and witnessed or experienced violence.
They are also missing out on education. With no immediate end to the conflict in sight, the children face months of uncertainty in temporary housing and not knowing if they might ever return to school and a normal life.
How you can help
Please, help the people of Syria today. Call 13 32 40 to give now, or donate online to the Syrian Refugee Crisis Appeal.