This year, people across the world have shown incredible solidarity with families forced to flee war, violence and persecution around the world. But over the coming months, people fleeing conflicts in Afghanistan, Syria and Ukraine will face freezing temperatures far from home. And the cold truth is, without support, many refugees will struggle to survive the winter.
Freezing winter weather is a threat as dangerous as the conflict that forced refugee families to flee their homes. In countries like Ukraine, Afghanistan, Syria and Iraq, displaced families are living in bomb-damaged, unheated homes, or flimsy makeshift shelters. They have little or no protection from the icy winds and torrential rain that’s on its way.
This year’s winter will be especially challenging as refugees face food insecurity and loss of employment opportunities due to the economic situation and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, with your support, UNHCR can continue on the ground providing vital winter essentials such as warm clothes, shelters, thermal blankets, fuel and stoves to cook hot food, and emergency winter payments. UNHCR’s winter assistance is focused on helping families survive in harsh conditions, often in precarious and temporary shelters. Critical needs for core assistance items during winter include blankets, solar lanterns, tent insulation kits and cash for heating, clothing and rent.
UNHCR leads the refugee response worldwide and has the reach and logistical capabilities to ensure that your donations will have an impact on the lives of the most vulnerable families.
For refugees, your support means everything.
