Child Refugee Crisis

Your generosity and support of Save the Children's Child Refugee Crisis Fund allows us to reach children affected by conflict and displacement. Here is the story of one of those children: 

Zahida*, 13, has always been passionate about school, but she never actually had the chance to attend one. Because of the war in Syria, Zahida's family has spend the last 11 years fleeing from conflict. The constant displacement prevented her parents from finding her a suitable school.

Zahida has some motor disabilities caused by a lack of oxygen at birth, which affect her ability to walk without falling. She was often bullied by others, especially while in displacement camps.

Eventually, Zahida’s family settled in a displacement camp in North East Syria. Zahida and her sister attended recreational activities at the Save the Children partner-run Child Friendly Space in their camp, and while she was there, Zahida expressed her desire to attend school. That was when the Save the Children team learned about Zahida. 

Our team visited Zahida and offered her a place at our Temporary Learning Space. Zahida was so excited to go to school the next day and sit at a school desk for the first time in her life.

"That was the most amazing day of my life. I was so happy. It was the first time ever that I attended school. The moment I entered the gate I felt safe."

Now, Zahida, who previously wouldn't leave her tent because she was bullied about her disability, walks the distance to school every day. When we asked Zahida about her dreams for the future, she said "I want to become a teacher and educate the children, especially the ones struggling
to get to school like myself." 

Support from donors like you makes a difference in the lives of kids like Zahida. Save the Children thanks you for giving hope to refugee children and families! 

*Names have been changed for privacy and protection.

Links:

• Save the Children - Syria
• Save the Children - Child Refugee Crisis