Earlier this year, humanitarian aid organisation Human Appeal launched a report looking into the ongoing conflict in Syria, marking six years since the civil war broke out.
On March 13th, the Manchester-based charity hosted an event in the River Room at the House of Lords in Parliament. During the conference, the report was introduced to those in attendance and it received a positive, supportive response.
A horrific situation
Since 2011, the country has been in a state of unrest, and in its report, Human Appeal highlighted the true extent of the horrific situation in Syria. Approximately 500,00 people have been killed, while just as many have lost their lives due to indirect consequences of the war, such as a lack of healthcare, and as the war continues, it’s predicted that these numbers will increase.
Due to the ongoing conflict, millions of men, women and children have fled their homes in fear, hoping to find safety elsewhere. There are currently over 600,00 living in besieged areas, while a staggering 6.3 million people are internally displaced.
Helping those who need it most
Just days after the conflict started in 2011, Human Appeal was on the ground, offering aid to those who need it most. So far, the charity has been able to provide thousands of people with access to clean, safe drinking water, working latrines and showers, food parcels and medical aid, including ambulances and hygiene kits. As its projects continue, it will go on delivering life-saving aid, such as sleeping supplies, kitchen sets and temporary shelters.
Previously known as Human Appeal International, the charity also runs its renowned flour distribution project, delivering flour to the bakeries of Syria. With food production at an all time low in the country, this initiative provides bread for over 200,000 beneficiaries each month, helping to keep bakeries in business and feeding families who may have been struggling to afford the food they so desperately need.
Chief Executive of Human Appeal Othman Moqbel has said that ending the conflict must be a “priority”, going on to state that we must “stay determined” in doing all we can for the people of Syria.
How you can help
In the report, the charity estimates that there are 13.5 million people in need of humanitarian assistance, and in order for it to continue providing aid across Syria and the rest of the globe, Human Appeal needs your help.
To find out how you can make a difference, and for more information about the charity’s ongoing projects, you can visit www.humanappeal.org.uk.