January 20, 2025
News
Despite years of displacement and harsh living conditions in northern Syria, Ali remains determined to care for his family. Forced to flee his hometown due to violence, he has endured countless challenges, from unemployment to the struggle for clean water. Now, thanks to Caritas Czech Republic, a renewed water supply is bringing hope back to his life, family, and community.
Everyday struggle for water
In the eastern countryside of Aleppo, northern Syria, in a humble mud house with crumbling walls and a canvas roof, lives Ali with his wife and six children. Their home offers little protection against the scorching summer heat or the piercing cold of winter.
Ali fled his hometown of Khanaser in southern Aleppo over eight years ago. Escaping the violence and military operations, he carried what few belongings he could and embarked on a dangerous journey into the unknown to protect his family. After moving from place to place, they finally settled in Barshaya.
Like many displaced families in northern Syria, Ali and his family face harsh living conditions, lacking even the most basic necessities—a struggle that persists despite the monumental change brought by the recent collapse of Bashar Assad's regime after 24 years in power on December 8, 2024. Unemployment is high, with limited opportunities to earn a livelihood. Yet, their greatest struggle is access to clean water.
"Getting water is one of the hardest challenges for us, especially during the summer. We don't have a nearby, safe water source, so we must travel long distances to collect it. Transporting water takes a lot of effort, time, and money, adding to the heavy burden we already bear," Ali describes.
A drop of hope
Together with our partner, the Takaful Al Sham Charity Organisation, we have been working tirelessly to alleviate the water crisis in Barshaya. The Shuwaiha water station is being maintained and operated regularly, ensuring a steady supply of clean water to local residents, including the camp where Ali lives.
For Ali and his family, this intervention has been transformative. "After years of hardship, we finally found hope. We now have water regularly and in sufficient quantities. Now, we no longer have to leave the camp or spend money to buy water. We can use it for drinking, cooking, washing, and even growing plants. This has truly brought joy to our lives," he reflects on the day water began to flow to their camp.
Ali’s vision for the future
Despite the improvement, Ali dreams of a more stable future where clean water is always available. He hopes that these efforts will expand, bringing relief to families across other camps and villages. Clean water is not just a basic necessity; it is the symbol of a brighter future for communities in northern Syria.
"Having consistent access to water makes a huge difference in our daily lives. It eases our suffering and gives us the strength to move forward," he says with determination.
Caritas Czech Republic in Syria
With the ongoing support of Caritas Czech Republic and Takaful Al Sham, Ali and his family, along with countless others, are beginning to rebuild their lives. Additionally, Caritas Czech Republic remains committed in improving the livelihood of people in Syria by providing psychological support and educational opportunities, essential supplies, and raising awareness on issues such as violence against women and empowering entrepreneurs.
Caritas Czech Republic’s projects, supported by the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and individual donors aim to deliver both immediate relief and long-term empowerment, ensuring that families like Ali’s can recover and thrive amidst the challenges they face.
