The Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) in Yemen has launched the Warm Winter 2024-2025 project to provide assistance to over 1,600 families in ‘Amran and Sa’ada Governorates. The project, carried out in collaboration with the Yemen Red Crescent Society (YRCS), aims to distribute mattresses and blankets at a total cost of $100,000. The inauguration ceremony took place in Thula, ‘Amran, where Ali Saleh Al Azab, deputy head of YRCS chapter, highlighted the importance of the campaign, especially in light of harsh winter conditions in the region.
In ‘Amran, 530 winterization kits, each containing blankets and mattresses, will be distributed to displaced and vulnerable families, widows, orphans, and persons with disabilities in Thula and Iyal Surayh Districts. Meanwhile, in Sa’ada, preparations are underway to provide 828 winterization kits to destitute families, families with no income source, orphans, and older persons. Part of the supplies will also be allocated to patients at mental health and cancer hospitals in Amanat Al Asimah.
Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Al Qashar, Assistant Director-General of Al Amal Psychiatric Hospital in San’aa, expressed gratitude for the support received from QRCS to provide charitable services for all social groups, especially during winter. As the only reference facility in Yemen, the hospital relies on external support to improve medical services for patients and visitors. The continuous and generous support from QRCS is crucial in ensuring the availability of medications and necessary equipment for the hospital to function effectively.
Yemen has been facing a humanitarian crisis for the past ten years, with approximately 4.1 million people forced to flee their homes due to the ongoing conflict. The onset of winter exacerbates the challenges faced by displaced families and individuals living in camps. Hydroclimatic monitoring stations have recorded a significant drop in temperatures across the country, with some areas experiencing temperatures as low as -3˚C during the winter months.
The project aims to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable populations in Yemen, especially during the winter season, by providing essential items such as blankets and mattresses to those in need. The initiative reflects the values of compassion and solidarity, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts to support communities facing hardship. With the support of QRCS and local authorities, the project seeks to reach out to more areas and provide assistance to those who require help the most.
As the distribution of winterization kits continues in ‘Amran and Sa’ada Governorates, the project is expected to benefit over 1,600 families, including displaced individuals, widows, orphans, and older persons. The efforts of QRCS and YRCS, along with the support of local authorities and stakeholders, are essential in ensuring the successful implementation of the project and delivering aid to those in need. Through ongoing campaigns and initiatives, the organizations aim to make a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable populations in Yemen and provide essential support during challenging times.