The unmet needs of thousands of Syrian refugees who are facing winter temperatures are to be tackled by Tearfund partners.
It’s estimated that 3,000 people a day are fleeing the conflict within Syria to neighbouring countries such as Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey and Iraq.
Most of those escaping are women and children who leave with few possessions and are ill-equipped to cope with winter conditions.
Tearfund is planning to work with two partners in the region to provide for basic needs such as food, cooking utensils, stoves, blankets, mattresses, hygiene materials and medical supplies.
To help families living in makeshift shelters, plastic and other materials are set to be supplied to boost insulation.
Scarred
We’re also planning to help partners offer psychological support to those who have been scarred by their ordeal during a 23-month long civil war that has claimed more than 60,000, mostly civilian, lives.
According to the UN, 728,000 Syrians have fled their country, a figure that is expected to rise to a million within just a few months.
Most refugees end up staying with local communities rather than in camps but host families are feeling the strain.
David Bainbridge, Tearfund’s International Director, said, ‘As the conflict has intensified, the number of people leaving Syria has risen rapidly over recent months.
‘Through our partners, we are looking to work in areas where refugees are receiving little, if any, outside help.
‘These people, mostly women and children, are extremely vulnerable and need our support and prayers.
