Dear John,

March was a sad month for many. It not only marks nine years of humanitarian crisis in Yemen, but 13 years of conflict in Syria. In both countries, whole generations are growing up knowing nothing but struggle and conflict.

But there are also glimpses of hope. UNHCR is making a difference to displaced people’s lives, providing emergency aid, as well as vital access to education and ways of earning an income. Meet Reem and Hanan to see some of the ways in which UNHCR is helping.

Evening up education 

For many Yemeni girls, one of the biggest barriers to education is the lack of privacy, along with security issues. This significantly reduces their chances of being able to control their future or earn an income.

However, UNHCR was able to build four classrooms and to increase the provision of education for displaced Yemeni children in the city of Al-Jawf. Now, the student population has doubled, and half of the students are female.

For children like seven-year-old Reem, the happiness she feels from going to school is clear to see from the big smile on her face.

Needles and new hopes

Hanan is a mother of five from Al-Ashera in Syria. She and her family were forced to leave their home for many years during the conflict, and when they finally returned, they found that the house had been looted.

As the family had no money and her husband was unable to work, Hanan started her own shoe-making business. Starting with just a needle, an awl, and a whole lot of determination, Hanan began by sewing second-hand children’s shoes.

She then learnt about UNHCR-supported start-up business grants and applied. Thanks to the grant, Hanan was able to buy a sewing machine, tools, and threads to help expand the business. Her income has become a lifeline for the family and is helping Hanan reach her dream of seeing her children succeed through education.

As Ramadan is currently being observed by displaced families in countries like Yemen and Syria. Please consider giving a Zakat donation which ensures that 100% of your donation goes directly to the most vulnerable families.

Thank you,

Monia Hassan
International Supporter Care
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency