Snow signals the start of a harsh winter for refugees

Heavy snowing signaled the onset of the harsh winter season in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), prompting World Vision teams to work double time to distribute winterization kits to 15,624 people (1,732 families). The kits include six blankets, carpet and plastic sheeting. Families with eight members received one sleeping mattress and those with 13 received two.

“During the recent distribution families were thankful, even ‘thrilled’, of the kits having seen their quality and quantity”, says Michael Wicker, World Vision KRI Water and Sanitation Specialist.

Most of the beneficiaries come from nearby Sinjar town in Iraq, close to the Syrian border. 

"People’s resilience in finding ways and helping each other is admirable. I saw many of them share vehicles to transport their kits into their homes."

Wicker adds, “It feels great to be able to conduct health and hygiene awareness activity during the distribution and hear people express their gratitude. The people’s resilience in finding ways and helping each other is admirable. I saw many of them share vehicles to transport their kits into their homes”.

Wicker described the conditions as “dire” and said more help is needed for thousands of people, with many requesting gas supply for heaters. Many of the tents are cramped and the roads in the camps have become muddy due to the rain. 

The rain and mud get into the tents, making it hard for families to keep them clean and warm.

Fadli Usman Lagi, Acting Operations Manager said work is being fast-tracked despite some weather challenges around the camp areas. “Our job is getting tougher as we speed up the needs for the winter season and security concerns. But I am strengthened seeing how people see hope with World Vision’s presence here.”

“My heart goes out for children. Despite the heavy snowing, our work will continue and we will do our best to keep going.”

Fadli Usman said it is heartbreaking to see poor condition all over the camps. He says, “My heart goes out for children. Despite the heavy snowing, our work will continue and we will do our best to keep going.”

In the next two weeks, cash assistance distribution for 2,232 families will start to help augment their winter needs. World Vision aims to support 220,000 internally displaced people in the Kurdistan region of Iraq with initiatives that include, among others, core relief items, health and hygiene and education.