In the wake of the threats and violence from ISIS many families fled their homes from one day to the next and left everything behind. Our partners have been working to respond since the crisis began.
“For me it was such an encouragement to see how our partners are working hard to meet the ongoing physical needs of the families as well as building relationships with them in the midst of their loss.”
Many of those who have mobilised help for these communities are themselves living as displaced people within their own country. The team meets the needs of over 500 families in this one area with food parcels and hygiene supplies. Through these visits the staff and volunteers have been able to provide support to those whose future is so uncertain and for whom daily life continues to be a struggle.
One such family who had fled from Mosul are receiving help to pay for their rent as well as the regular food parcels delivered to them once a month. The house they are living in has three rooms and is accommodating 14 people from three different families. The father of the family shared;
“We don’t just need material support but we also need people to help us forget what we faced and also to support us emotionally. We feel that these are people who care about us.”
For us it was moving to hear them talk with thanks for what they have, rather than dwelling on what they have lost. Their parting words… we can rebuild our homes again but at least we still have our faith.
If you would like to continue to support our work with these families in Kurdistan please follow this link to our Iraq Appeal giving page with our UK partner Agapé.
Giving £75 a month will support a family of five with a regular food parcel and basic hygiene supplies.
Or you can make a one-off gift today that will support the ongoing work of our partners carrying out the much needed practical care and support.