Shelter Through the Winter

When 25 families fled violence in Suweyda, they arrived at a small church in a nearby city with little more than what they could carry. The church opened its doors, transforming a simple activity hall into a place of refuge for 87 displaced Christians. 

But as winter set in, the space was not equipped for long-term living. Cold temperatures, unreliable electricity, and limited facilities put children, the elderly, and vulnerable residents at serious risk. 

This project changed that. 

Meeting Urgent Needs 

Over four months, critical upgrades stabilized the shelter and made daily life safer: 

• Heating and fuel: 11 new heaters were installed alongside existing units, with regular fuel deliveries and safety guidance for families. 
• Winter clothing: 75 individuals prioritizing children, elderly, and medically vulnerable received properly fitted clothing and footwear. 
• Energy and facilities (in progress): Solar installation and kitchen and hygiene upgrades are underway, bringing reliable lighting, safer food storage, and improved sanitation. 

The impact was immediate. Warmer rooms reduced illness, children could safely move outdoors, and families reported better sleep and stability. 

More Than a Shelter 

The church quickly moved beyond shelter into a center of community and faith. 

For families who lost homes, livelihoods, and a sense of normalcy, this support carried deep meaning. It reinforced the church as a place of dignity, continuity, and care.

Local leadership noted that while many promises had been made in the past, this intervention delivered real, sustained support. 

A Story of Service 

Among those sheltering is S*, a mother of four and former nurse who lost her home and livelihood in the violence. 

Despite her own trauma, she immediately began caring for others. 

She tends to the sick, supports elderly residents, assists pregnant women, and helps run daily kitchen operations often with little rest. In the midst of loss, she became a source of strength for the entire community. 

Looking Ahead 

This effort goes beyond emergency relief. Durable heating systems, upcoming solar energy, and improved facilities are helping create more stable living conditions for the months ahead. 

By combining immediate aid with longer-term upgrades, the project reduces vulnerability and strengthens the church’s ability to serve displaced families with dignity.