Updates from the field
Airlifting Hope into Northeast Syria
Two humanitarian airlifts reached more than 11,000 people in Northeast Syria
May 14, 2026 | by Charmaine Hedding
In 2025, Shai Fund launched two large-scale humanitarian airlifts into Northeast Syria at a time when humanitarian access was severely restricted and needs were rapidly growing. Working through trusted local church, healthcare, and community networks, the initiative delivered emergency food, medical supplies, hygiene items, blankets, mattresses, and baby clothing to vulnerable families across Al-Hassaka, Al-Qamishli, Al-Qahtaniyah, Raqqa, Tabqa, and Kobane.
Between January and August 2025, 3,550 families — representing 11,198 people — received emergency assistance designed to help households facing economic collapse, displacement, and limited access to essential services.
The airlifts reached Christians, Kurds, Arabs, Yazidis, and internally displaced families living in schools, camps, abandoned apartment blocks, and informal shelters. Beyond immediate relief, the operation helped stabilize vulnerable communities and strengthened the ability of minority populations to remain safely in their homes.
A Small Meal, A Lasting Impact
At a kindergarten in Al-Qamishli, families were struggling to provide balanced meals amid worsening economic conditions. Through the airlift initiative, the staff were able to introduce a warm, vegetable-based rice soup during school hours — bringing this type of nutritious, high-protein food to the children for the first time.
As the soup cooked, its aroma filled the classroom, creating excitement and curiosity among the children. When served, many eagerly asked for seconds. The meal quickly became more than just food; it became an opportunity to teach healthy eating habits in a positive and shared environment.
One staff member shared, “Thanks to Shai Fund’s support, we were able to offer something truly special, healthy food that many of our children had never tasted before. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a lesson in care, sharing, and the joy of trying something new.”
In a region where families are increasingly struggling to meet basic nutritional needs, even a simple meal became a source of dignity, nourishment, and joy.
Strengthening Communities Through Local Partnerships
The first airlift, carried out between January and March 2025, delivered emergency relief during an exceptionally harsh winter. Aid distributions reached families across Hassaka and Raqqa Governorates through local partners, including Christian schools and kindergartens that also serve Kurdish, Arab, and Yazidi children.
The second airlift, implemented between May and August 2025, expanded medical support to additional health facilities while continuing food assistance for displaced households living in highly vulnerable conditions throughout Al Hassaka city and surrounding areas.
Together, the two airlifts demonstrated how rapid, well-coordinated intervention can preserve lives and strengthen community resilience even amid collapsing public services and ongoing regional instability.
Combined Impact (January–August 2025)
- 3,550 families supported
- 11,198 people reached
- 2,964 boxes of medical supplies delivered
- Approximately 3,201 patients supported through strengthened healthcare services
- Food, hygiene items, blankets, mattresses, and baby clothing distributed to vulnerable households
More than an emergency aid operation, the airlifts strengthened local resilience and helped vulnerable communities remain rooted in their homes in Northeast Syria during a time of ongoing crisis.
