Emergency Aid for Displaced People in Kurdish Iraq

IsraAID’s program in the Kurdish Region of Iraq was launched in 2014 to support those affected by ISIS atrocities. ISIS systematically attacked and displaced Yazidis, Christians and other ethnic minorities throughout Northern Iraq. At the start of 2017, there were 4.2 million Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and 1.9 million returnees. By December 2017, the number of reported IDPs decreased to 2.6 million and returnees increased to 3.2 million.

IsraAID’s team has focused on three programs with IDPs in the Kurdish Region of Iraq: Emergency Response, Protection, and STEM Education. 

Emergency Response:

Last year, IsraAID distributed food and urgent non-food items to more than 225 households, reaching more than 1000 people, in an IDP camp hosting Yazidi, Christian and Muslim communities.

Protection:

IsraAID’s professional team has provided direct psychosocial support to a group of young Yazidi girl survivors. The program enables the female participants to process their emotions and start to take control back of their lives. Daily sessions focus on understanding the effects of trauma and gaining new coping and listening skills, to help themselves and support their peers. Through guided meditation, journaling, art and pictures, the girls start to address their trauma and build resilience. The program also focuses on fostering group dynamics to help the girls build a peer support network and lasting friendships.

Our mental health experts also trained a group of local social workers of mixed religious and ethnic background, who work with more than 900 IDP camp residents. IsraAID offered case management consultations and training on psychosocial support.

STEM Education:

IsraAID’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) program delivers cutting-edge, practical and theoretical education for students and teachers in schools. Thanks to this program, more than 9,000 people – including students, teachers, parents, and community members – have been impacted by the mind- and world-expanding possibilities of science and technology. By opening participants’ minds to new ways of thinking and learning, the STEM education program teaches new skills and broadens long-term aspirations and possibilities.

Thank you for your support, which makes this project possible! More updates to follow ...