Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Donates $10 Million to Alleviate the Suffering of Syrian Refugee Children
Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, has donated $10 million to provide humanitarian aid to Syrian refugees and their families. This generous contribution aims to support them in overcoming their hardships and meeting their basic needs, including food, shelter, healthcare, and educational services.
This donation comes in response to the humanitarian appeal launched by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and Eminent Advocate for Refugee Children with the UNHCR, through the “Big Heart” initiative for Syrian refugee children.
This contribution is particularly timely as the Syrian Regional Response Plan faces a $1.9 billion funding gap to assist more than 760,000 refugees.
Currently, the number of registered Syrian refugees and those still on the UNHCR waiting list has reached approximately 600,000 in Lebanon, 500,000 in Jordan, 400,000 in Turkey, 160,000 in Iraq, and 100,000 in North Africa.
Speaking about the importance of sharing the spirit of Ramadan with Syrian refugees, Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, also known as the “Mother of the Nation,” stated: *”As we enjoy the blessings of Ramadan with our families and loved ones, we must not forget the millions of Syrians who lack shelter and a homeland to turn to.”*
She added: *”We will support the Big Heart Campaign for Syrian refugee children to tell them that while homes and shelters may be lost, hope will never be lost.”*
Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, on behalf of all Syrian refugees, expressed profound gratitude to Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak for her generous support and donation to improve their living conditions and alleviate their suffering.
She remarked: *”There is no doubt that such heartfelt contributions have a significant impact on instilling hope in the hearts of Syrian refugees amid the harsh realities they face. These efforts offer them a glimmer of optimism for a brighter future. At the Big Heart Campaign for Syrian refugee children, we deeply value the role played by the Mother of the Nation, reaffirming that the spirit of humanity remains vibrant and strong within us.”*
Panos Moumtzis, UNHCR Regional Coordinator for Syrian Refugees, highlighted that over 1.7 million Syrian citizens have sought refuge in Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey, Iraq, and Egypt. Over one million were registered in the first six months of 2013, making this one of the fastest-growing refugee crises in history.
He noted the immense challenges faced by Syrian refugees, particularly children and women, as they struggle daily to secure basic needs such as shelter, food, water, health, and education. However, international and regional humanitarian initiatives, such as the Big Heart Campaign led by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher, are crucial in addressing some of the refugees’ essential daily needs.
