The on-going conflict in Syria has created one of the most pressing humanitarian crises in the world.
Today, Syria continues to face one of the most severe development and humanitarian disasters in recent history. With more than 10 million Syrians affected by the deepening conflict, Syrian refugees now constitute the largest population of refugees in the world, and more than half the population of Syria live in extreme poverty without adequate access to basic needs such as food and shelter and the situation continues to worsen daily.
The Al-Imdaad Foundation, has been at the forefront of the humanitarian catastrophe in Syria. Mahmood Asvat, Projects Co-ordinator at the Al-Imdaad Foundation and his relief team from South Africa and United Kingdom are currently in Syria, delivering 1 000 tons of flour as part of the Al-Imdaad Foundation’s ‘I NEED YOU – SYRIA FLOUR’ campaign. 40 fully laden trucks, carrying 1000 tons of flour are destined to bakeries, which will provide fresh bread to impoverished Syrian families over the next few weeks. “Extreme hunger is everywhere in Syria,” Mr Asvat said.
“The look in the children’s eyes display a sense of despondency, knowing not where their next meal is coming from,” Mr Asvat dejectedly expressed. A glimmer of hope shines as the Al-Imdaad Foundation has mapped out a long term food security programme for these hungry people. “Food parcels are an immediate response to alleviate hunger and our network of bakeries inside Syria not only provides fresh bread daily but also creates jobs that enable Syrians to earn and fend for their dependants,” Mr Asvat stated.
The foundation’s efforts does not stop here. Flying the South African flag high, the Al-Imdaad Foundation has also completed the first ever South African containerised village inside Syria and has begun the establishment of a second containerised village due to the current increase in the number of internally displaced people.
An orphanage for Syrian children who have lost both parents has been established in Kirikhan, Turkey, The foundation has also established a school and a trauma centre in Syria which has been supported by women’s groups across South Africa.
“We thank our donors and various well-wishers for showing their unstinting support to the Syrian people and for making these projects possible,” added Mr Asvat. To support this project and for more information visit www.alimdaad.com
