Nestled within a weathered house, where rooftops bear the weight of time and walls whisper tales of resilience, resides Um Raed. A steadfast grandmother, she embraces the role of provider for her grandchildren, their gazes seeking solace in the vastness of the open skies. Against the backdrop of these crumbling walls, Um Raed’s resolve stands unyielding. She clings to her abode, a sanctuary of cherished memories that reverberate within its timeworn corners. Adorning these walls is a snapshot – a tribute to her children, souls lost to the unforgiving barrage of aerial bombardments that ravaged the once-thriving city of Jisr al-Shughur.

Um Raed now stands as the cornerstone of her family, safeguarding not just their livelihood but the key to their dreams – education. Yet, her path to this role was not easy. The echoes of a past tragedy resonate as her husband, a casualty of a bombing their home, passed away nine years ago. Um Raed embraced temporary displacement, clinging to a fragment of hope amidst the ruins. In losing her life partner, she also mourned the loss of the home they had tenderly crafted together, brick by brick, year after year.

Um Raed’s journey bore witness to the difficult stretches of displacement and homelessness, a journey which brought her back to her ravaged home. Drawn by the calm that had returned to the region, she sought solace within its familiar walls. Yet, challenges persisted –  having enough water and sustenance for her grandchildren became a daily struggle, often reliant on the kindness of neighbors and relatives to secure their basics needs: clean drinking water and nourishing food.

WATAN, driven by steady commitment to uplift lives, embarked on a project to address these issues. In the heart of Jisr al-Shughur, multiple water stations were constructed. Clear and safe drinking water flowed and Um Raed’s life, and that of countless others were made easier. Accessing water was not longer a burden and they did not have to drink from contaminated streams which could negatively impact their health.

There are countless stories similar to Um Read’s, having had to fight daily for basic needs and WATAN emerges as an advocate for the vulnerable to provide them the assistance they need. It amplifies the voices of those who have weathered unimaginable trials, urging for increased support for the affected families in Syria. In its wake, a ripple of resilience surges forth, weaving threads of hope and sustenance.

WATAN’s role resonates through the transformation of lives and the bestowal of hope amid the harshest of circumstances. Each endeavor, every project, from the amplification of humanitarian aid to the bolstering of water infrastructure, leaves an indelible mark on individuals and communities alike.

The continued sustenance of humanitarian organizations, like WATAN, fuels an unwavering commitment to improve lives. The quest to improve the lives of those grappling with unrelenting adversity perseveres. Through concerted efforts, the support and aid provided to the afflicted families of Syria and other regions in need nurture resilience and fortitude, a testament to the boundless potential of human compassion.