Syria (MNN) — Syrian refugees are desperate as some of the worst winter weather in decades hits portions of the Middle East.
Last week, the first winter storm hit Jordan, collapsing makeshift tents. The same was true in Lebanon, where record rainfalls flooded the lowlands and soaked through paper-thin shelter walls. The weather couldn't come at a worse time, as tens of thousands of people seek refuge in Syria's neighboring countries each day.
According to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), over 200,000 have sought shelter in Lebanon, with close to the same amount in Turkey. The Jordanian government says their nation plays host to some 280,000 refugees, and the UNHCR says they've seen 10,000 new arrivals in the last 10 days. About 19% of the refugees registered with the UNHCR are under the age of 12.
When the violence increased this spring and summer in Syria, many escaped with only the clothes on their backs. As a result, they now face winter's bitter cold with flip-flops and T-shirts.
In the midst of such suffering, The JESUS Film Project is delivering help and hope.
Combination heating and cooking units provide a warm meal for refugee families and help temporary shelters stay warm. Each unit comes with a heater, cooking plate and a propane canister. In addition, each refugee family gets the opportunity to see the love of Jesus in their heart language through a "JESUS" DVD.
"It's not uncommon to hear a refugee say, 'Only the Christians are helping us,'" aid workers report. As soon as funding is available, they can immediately distribute 250 heaters to refugee families.
Click here to help send warmth and hope to Syria refugees.
Pray that real peace would come to Syria. Pray for endurance for those who have fled for their safety.
