Stories of hope
A Path to Stability
Restoring a livelihood after a devastating church attack
March 13, 2026 | by McKenzie Hood
In the months after a devastating attack at Mar Elias Church in Damascus, one family faced an uncertain future.
When violence struck their congregation during worship, the tragedy left many grieving. Among those lost was a husband and father who had long supported his family. Suddenly, his wife, Dr. Miriam, found herself responsible for providing for their two daughters while navigating grief, instability, and the daily realities of life in a fragile city.
Before the attack, she had stepped away from her dental practice to focus on raising her children while her husband worked. After his death, returning to that profession became the family’s only path toward stability but the clinic she once ran was no longer equipped to function. Years of economic hardship and constant electricity cuts had left it unable to operate.
Through Shai Fund’s support, the clinic was restored and brought back to life so Dr. Miriam could resume her profession and provide for her family.
Essential dental tools were installed, including updated diagnostic equipment and treatment devices that allow the clinic to manage cases that previously had to be turned away. A backup power system was also added, ensuring the clinic can continue operating during Damascus’s frequent electricity outages.
With the new equipment in place, the clinic reopened with stable hours and growing patient visits. The improvements allow Dr. Miriam to offer a wider range of dental care while generating reliable income for her household.
A Turning Point for One Family
For Dr. Miriam, reopening the clinic has brought more than financial stability. After months of uncertainty and grief, returning to her profession has restored a sense of purpose and dignity.
Dr. Miriam shared, “Losing my husband left a hole in our lives, and I worried every day about how to provide for my daughters. There were moments when I didn’t know how we would manage, but this support showed me that God opens doors even in difficult times, and that my daughters and I are not alone.”
With the clinic operating again, her daughters are able to continue their education and the household has regained a predictable source of income.
Strengthening Resilience After Violence
While this project supported one family, its impact reaches further. Restoring small businesses and professional livelihoods helps families remain rooted in their communities despite instability and targeted violence.
For this widow and her daughters, the clinic is a path forward.
Through practical support like this, Shai Fund continues working to strengthen vulnerable religious communities and ensure families have the tools they need to rebuild their lives.
