The Syrian Civil War has been raging for an exhausting period of four years now, with no end in sight. More than 10 million people have been displaced from their homes, and more than 6 million of them are refugees outside their country. And while most help comes in the form of donations to humanitarian organizations like UNHCR or UNICEF, there are plenty of ways that you can help Syrian refugees in your community!
The Syrian Civil War
As we’ve seen throughout history, wars lead to instability and deaths everywhere they go- not just among those who fight them directly. And while The United States government might be taking steps towards resolving this conflict with increased airstrikes against ISIS targets in Syria, we mustn’t forget about the innocent civilians caught in the middle of this war. Now, while Biden’s administration increased the refugee cap to accommodate more displaced Syrians, you can do plenty too!
Volunteer With a Local Organization
Many organizations that help refugees in your community are volunteer-based. Simply contact the organization to see if they currently need help! And while you may not be able to spend time abroad, many volunteers do things like help run after-school programs for refugee children or teach English classes at local universities.
You can also volunteer to distribute basic amenities that come from donations. Many organizations need help distributing items like hygiene kits, clothing, or school supplies to refugees in your community.
Donate to Local Organizations
While donating items is always helpful, some organizations can use such donations in ways other than providing for basic needs. You can even donate old clothes or other amenities that you no longer need! For example, many of these organizations will accept school supplies and household You can even donate old clothes or other amenities that you no longer need! Every little item, distributed among refugee families who desperately need help setting up their new homes. This way, you’re not just helping by making sure kids have crayons or toothbrushes. You’re also letting them know that people care about them!
Donate Your Time or Money
While many volunteer-based organizations are always looking for help, there are also plenty of ways you can help Syrian refugees without being physically present! For example, consider donating money to an organization that helps Syrian refugees in your community.
Also, consider donating money to help support the efforts of organizations like UNHCR and UNICEF that help Syrian refugees abroad. Every little bit counts when it comes to helping these people get back on their feet after such a devastating war has torn apart their lives.
Support Local Schools
Refugee kids need all of the support and love possible when transitioning into a new culture and learning how to speak another language fluently! Many schools have large populations of students with limited English speaking abilities, so there’s always room for more help. There must be an ESL program within your locality looking for tutors/teachers. They want nothing more than helping others learn English—and assisting Syrian refugees at the same time!
As you can see, there are plenty of ways to help Syrian refugees in your community without having to leave home. And while it’s essential to make a difference on an international level, it is also just as important to help refugees in your backyard!
