Cordaid in Syria
In 2018, the security for many Syrians improved despite areas in the country with continued heavy fighting. The improved security situation resulted into a slight change in basic needs and in response to those changing needs, Cordaid closed its JRS operated food kitchens half way the year. By that time we had supported 14,367 people with nutritious meals in Aleppo. In addition, Cordaid also supported the assistance provided though sister organization Caritas Syria in Hassaké where 1,200 families (6,000 people) received food and NFIs and jointly with Caritas Syria, we responded to the Eastern Ghouta response after the heavy fighting caused many people to flee towards Damascus.
Because of the changing situation and needs of returning Syrians, Cordaid decided to expand its activities to health care, shelter rehabilitation, livelihood activities and distribution of winter NFIs. At the end of 2018, Cordaid implemented different projects in 3 areas: (rural) Aleppo, Homs, rural Damascus. On average 229 people per month received health care (consultations). Cordaid had supported 262 families (1,310 people) in the rehabilitation of their houses in Aleppo, Rural Damascus and Homs and 400 households were trained in reconstruction related skills (such as electrician, plumbing etc), benefitting 2,000 people. Cordaid also rehabilitated 2 schools, allowing children to return to school and 16,500 people were also involved in community support activities. 40 families received NFIs and as towards the end of 2018 winter in Aleppo proofed extremely harsh, 6,000 children received winter clothes, shoes and thermal blankets. Cordaid is working with several Syrian partners, providing life-saving support.
In 2019 Cordaid continued providing humanitarian assistance through local partners to the Syrian people in Aleppo, Homs, and Rural Damascus. We supported projects in the domain of protection, education, health, livelihood. They include household shelter repair, rehabilitation of schools and health centers, and distribution of cash. We also support our partners, including Caritas Syria, financially and provide technical expertise.
Cordaid Syria operations are managed by the Regional Office in Iraq. The process of registration in Syria is ongoing, aiming to have a strategic partnership with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent.
Partners and donors
In addition to Cordaid Mensen in Nood funding, the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs is the main strategic partner. Cordaid is a member of the Dutch Relief Alliance (DRA).
The DRA responds to major humanitarian crises in a timely and effective manner. The Alliance is a cooperation of 16 Dutch NGO’s and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Our main partners in Syria are the development arms of the Churches, mainly the Greek Catholic Church and the Greek Orthodox Church (GOPA-DERD, Caritas…).
(© Header image by Patrick Nicholson / Caritas Internationalis)