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In Northern Syria: Coffee, biscuits, and a chance to start again
"We had to flee and leave everything behind to save our lives.”
Safaa used to live comfortably in the countryside of northern Syria. Until violence changed everything.
She is one of 7.2 million Syrians who remain displaced since conflict began in 2011.
Today, the country is also suffering an economic depression, related to global inflation, with millions living with poverty and hunger.
"We haven't experienced a single day of joy or happiness, we face difficulties in every aspect of life," Safaa says. The obstacles seem never-ending; “Job opportunities are scarce and often not permanent. Daily wages are insufficient to meet a family's needs. It’s difficult to start your own business without money."
Safaa* had to flee her home northern Syria in 2018 due to the conflict. Since the conflict began, Safaa and her family have faced daily struggles. "We haven't experienced a single day of joy or happiness as we face difficulties in every aspect of life," Safaa explains. Photo: Concern Worldwide
Concern in Syria is supporting vulnerable women and children to build their resilience and stay safe. In partnership with Irish Aid, Concern provides children with psychosocial support in Child-Friendly Spaces, giving them a safe space to heal.
Concern’s positive parenting sessions for parents and other caregivers help them improve their stress management skills, promoting a positive home environment. Female caregivers are supported with business training and small grants, to help the family generate an income and afford essential goods.
Safaa attends the positive parenting sessions, and her children receive psychosocial support to help them cope with challenges and improve their wellbeing. "My children attended Concern's Child-Friendly Space, where they enjoyed wonderful times that made up for what they lacked at home," she says.
Safaa* had to flee her home northern Syria in 2018 due to the conflict. Since the conflict began, Safaa and her family have faced daily struggles. "We haven't experienced a single day of joy or happiness as we face difficulties in every aspect of life," Safaa explains. Photo: Concern Worldwide
Concern also provided Safaa with business management skills training and a small business grant, helping her to set up a business. Safaa now runs a roadside stall where she offers coffee, other hot beverages, and a selection of biscuits and cakes. "Concern provided me with financial support which allowed me to purchase the necessary items to open this shop and support my family. While I don't earn a lot from this work, it helps to cover some of our essential needs," she says.
Names have either been withheld or changed.
