The Daily Grind:

Life in Aleppo today is a delicate balance. The water shortage, affecting over 2 million people, is a constant struggle. Basic necessities are costly, a temporary but real burden. Electricity, once a two-hour-per-day affair, is now down to a single hour, a testament to the ongoing conflict’s toll on infrastructure. Many now rely on generators, adding a significant financial strain at $30 a week to buy ampers from private companies.

A Wave of Return:

Syrians returning from Turkey after the recent political developments face immense challenges. A substantial portion has lost their homes due to the war and earthquake. Facing a lack of housing, they rely on extended family, unable to bring in much-needed income. This population is heavily impacted financially, adding further strain to the Syrian economy and the dire need for aid.

Winter’s Gentler Hand:

This winter has been considerably milder than previous ones. Occasional rain is a welcome relief, offering some reprieve, though the impact of global warming and previous harsh winters is clearly visible.

A Mix of Optimism and Challenges

The overall mood is surprisingly optimistic, but tensions persist between groups, sometimes overshadowed by reported media focusing on minority groups (Kurds,  Christians, etc) 

A Flourishing Aid Effort:

The aid sector in Aleppo is picking up, with existing charities reopening and new ones, mostly Syrian and Muslim-focused, emerging. They are largely funded by Turkish governmental support, Syrian businesses overseas, and various international organizations like the UN.

Will culture shift?

The mix of cultures in Aleppo, despite the trials and tribulations, remains largely intact. The resilience displayed by these communities suggests a continued embrace of diversity.

International Players:

Unfortunately, international organizations, impacted by sanctions, are either restricted or not actively operating in Aleppo. Their return, expected in March, is a welcome sign. However, the specific methods of cooperation are fluid and dependent upon the ever-shifting landscape.

Looking Ahead:

Crete For Life and Aleppo For Life educational projects and emergency responses remain vital. The ongoing support, both locally and internationally, is of utmost importance. This renewed hope, in tandem with focused efforts, continues giving life to the spirit of a city still wounded but slowly healing. Remember, Aleppo for Life isn’t just a slogan; it’s a continuous commitment to the well-being of its people.

 Syria is the land entry point to the Middle East. The Syrian war has been described as the biggest proxy war in recent times. Assad was backed by part of the Syrian population not because they did not see his faults but as a symbol against foreign interventions and the division of Syria.

Since the beginning of the war in 2011, Assad has ruled over the main part of the country, including the four major cities, Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, and Hamas. He was able to do so with the support of Russia and Iran, present in Syria since the 1970s.

Turkey, Qatar, and the West have been backing anti-regime forces, including HTS (former Al Nusra, former Al Quaeda). Despite its name, the Syrian National army is a wholly Turkish-owned entity

Without Russia (in Ukraine) and Iran (backing Hezbollah against Israel), and after over a decade of war, violence, and severe international sanction, Assad has finally failed now to protect Syria, and he is probably in Russia.

Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has promised a new Syria for everyone of every religion and political creed, in peace and prosperity. The biggest danger would be to end up fractioned like Iraq and Libya, Islamized or both.

There is also the danger of this new regime falling into the trap of foreign aid and loans that come with hidden political conditions. Syria has resources that if properly managed, will allow the state to be rebuilt without losing its sovereignty

The future will tell us what the new Syria will be like. The immensely resilient Syrians are tired and ready for the recovery of people and the rebuilding of the sovereign state. STAY IN TOUCH

– The Harsh Reality

For many kids in Aleppo, schools once filled with laughter and learning have become mere memories, reduced to ruins. Textbooks are worn and torn, and the dream of a better future often feels like a distant fantasy. The impact of war has created profound challenges, but it has also deepened the need for compassion and action.

Your support can rewrite this narrative. As women who often devote our lives to nurturing and caring, we can channel our empathy into meaningful action that transforms lives.

– How Can You Make a Difference?

1. Provide Essential School Supplies: Simple items like pens, notebooks, and backpacks might seem minor, but they are the vital tools that unlock the doors of learning. Picture a child opening a fresh notebook, their imagination ignited and possibilities endless.
2. Fund Teacher Salaries: Teachers are the backbone of any education system. By ensuring that qualified educators are supported, we enhance the quality of education these children receive, fostering a love for learning and a path toward self-sufficiency.
3. Rebuild Schools: Safe and well-equipped schools are crucial for effective learning. By restoring these spaces, we create environments where children can feel secure and inspired to learn.

– Why Education Matters

Empowerment: Education is a powerful catalyst for personal and community growth. It equips individuals to make informed decisions, breaking the cycle of poverty that has gripped families for too long.

Hope: In a landscape overshadowed by despair, education shines as a beacon of hope. It’s a reminder that a better future is achievable.

Peace: Societies built on education tend to be more peaceful and prosperous. By investing in the education of Syrian children, we contribute to a more stable future.

– Join Us in Making a Change

Your involvement can take many forms:

Donate: No amount is too small. Every contribution makes a significant impact. Imagine the joy of giving a child the tools they need to learn and thrive. Our goal is to support 50 students, requiring a total of €22,500 — just €450 per student.

Share: Spread the word! Use your social networks to let others know about this cause. Your voice can inspire action among your friends and family.

Volunteer: If you have the skills and time to spare, consider volunteering with us. Your support can directly impact many lives.

– Our Unique Approach

Our local partners, the Blue Marists, foster personal relationships with the students we sponsor. They track each child’s progress meticulously. Students receive a card detailing their profile and story, allowing us to know them beyond just numbers. Our dedicated volunteers visit families regularly, ensuring that the support provided directly benefits the children.

With the school term ending in December, there’s an urgent need for action. Your support now can ensure that these children continue their education without interruption come January.

Together, let’s light the spark of hope in the hearts of Syrian students. Your compassion can change their lives, one book at a time.

Donate Now and Be a Part of the Change

Together, we can build a brighter future for Syria’s next generation. Let’s stand united for education, hope, and a peaceful tomorrow.

What kept us going was knowing that there is strong medical evidence that children affected by consequences of the Chernobyl catastrophe can significantly benefit from spending time by the Cretan Sea. The clean air, sunlight, and welcoming environment are believed to have a positive impact on their health and well-being. Essential support and friendship for this cause have come from Tatiana Kot, president of “Medicine and Chernobyl,” one of Belarus’s oldest and most reputable associations. “Medicine and Chernobyl’s” efforts have been instrumental in overcoming all the challenges and obstacles of hosting Belarusian children in Crete.

In Crete, the members of the organization “Inconews” have been constant supporters of this program. Here are some memories by Peter and Barbara Chapman of the beginning of this amazing experience we shared together.

Dear Oli,

Please play with this as you see fit, I hope some of it is useful.

When, in the early 2000’s, we moved to Elounda from Moscow, we missed the network of expats willing to give advice on any/all aspects of living in the country. So, we borrowed the concept and adapted it to Cretan realities, utilizing an existing Syllogos – INCO – a “not-for-profit” members organisation operating in Lasithi, mainly around Aghios Nikolaos.

We were soon afterwards contacted by Olimpia Theodoli, President of “Crete For Life” who was planning to bring to Crete for a month that summer a group of Belorussian children, damaged by the Chernobyl disaster along with their guardians.

On realising that the programme required “Crete for Life” to provide all accommodation, food, medical & dental care, and educational support – we thought she was mad!!. This was a massive undertaking with financial, linguistic, cultural & political challenges and risks at both ends. Brave was an understatement!!

At that time, as now, Belarus was the most “Soviet” of the former USSR countries. Barbara and I hoped that our knowledge of Russian language & Belarusian bureaucracy might be helpful.

We agreed with Olimpia that we would invite the INCO membership and local businesses to participate in this challenging but potentially worthwhile venture.

The outcome exceeded our wildest expectations. Olimpia was a magician, she chose the perfect beach cove hotel base for the children – Vassilis’s Hotel, straight out of Captain Corelli.

We were all amazed at the personal commitment of our local communities, with everyone involved taking the children to heart and giving freely of themselves. One of the most unforgettable experiences was the joy, amazement with which the children reacted to seeing the sea for the first time. Many of them couldn’t work out a relationship with it because they didn’t know what it was—Belarus is landlocked!

There are some things we are lucky enough to take for granted. Others are less fortunate!

From this experience of Olimpia’s networking skills and another organisational strength, we realised that there were synergies within the “Crete for Life” & INCO objectives which have evolved into shared activities, mutual support and lasting friendships.

The ultimate beneficiaries have undoubtedly been fragile and vulnerable children, but also the communities of Lasithi which have become increasingly integrated, charitable and accepting of outsiders.

Thank you, Olimpia, ❤️

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First and foremost, Crete is known for its stunning beaches. With crystal-clear waters pebbles and soft sand, they’re the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Kids will love building sandcastles, swimming, and snorkeling in the shallow waters. Some of the most popular beaches on the island include Elafonisi, Balos, and Falassarna, but don’t forget the less popular but equally stunning beaches to the east and south of the island.

But there’s more to Crete than just its beaches. The island is rich in history and culture, with ancient ruins, traditional villages, and vibrant cities to explore. One must-see attraction is the Palace of Knossos, the largest and most elaborate palace of the Minoan civilization. Kids will be fascinated by the myths and legends surrounding the palace, from the Minotaur to Theseus and Ariadne.

Also near the capital Heraklion there are two visits your kids will love: the Aquarium of Crete which is part of Thalassokosmos (the largest complex for marine research, technology and entertainment in the Mediterranean area) and it is home to 2000 sea animals, and Acquaplus, justly the most popular water park on the island of Crete, much fun for the whole family.

For a more active adventure, consider hiking one of the many beatiful paths in Crete and in particular the Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest and most impressive gorges. The hike is suitable for older children and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water!

Of course, no visit to Crete would be complete without trying the local cuisine. From fresh seafood to delicious cheeses and honey, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to try some traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki. And for a sweet treat, don’t miss the chance to sample some baklava or galaktoboureko.

With so much to see and do, a family holiday in Crete is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or culture, you’ll find it all on this beautiful island. And as a charity with a long history of working with children and young people in Crete, we’re proud to support the local community and share the beauty and magic of this special place with the world.

Read more about our Restorative Summer Camps

Here, my friends and I decided to participate in the response by offering something different and important at the same time, which is helping those affected to find new homes for rent and pay the rent for a year. I started communicating with my friends abroad, who showed great interest in the idea because it was a basic need as well as most of the local organizations and associations focused only on food and clothing.

 After two months of hard work, housing was secured for approximately 100 families. 

In June, I contacted one of the charities in the city of As-Suwayda, who told me that there were more than 150 Aleppo families displaced to As-Suwayda after the earthquake, and most of them were in a difficult economic situation. After communicating with the “Crete for Life” organization, cash amounts were provided to many of them as small aid before Eid. Al-Adha

And now, nine months after the earthquake, the economic situation has worsened after the gradual collapse of the currency, which has increased the rate of famine and poverty in the city of Aleppo.

Because we are on the cusp of a harsh and severe winter, work is currently underway to collect donations to provide winter coats for children because most families cannot buy at least one coat due to the 100% rise in clothing prices compared to last year. Your simple help means a lot to these children and to us.

From Abdullah Zeinabdin, Aleppo

The primary goal of the Aleppo For Life project is to provide quality education to underprivileged children in Aleppo, empowering them with knowledge, skills, and opportunities for a brighter future. The project aims to support 50 young adults for the upcoming academic year, improving their literacy and giving them access to quality education.

The challenges in Aleppo are immense. Illiteracy affects over 50% of the Syrian population, with millions of children missing out on schooling due to the war, poverty and the recent earthquake. Over 85% of households are unable to meet their basic needs, making it difficult for families to prioritize education. Many schools have been destroyed, and the shortage of teachers further hampers access to education.

Despite these challenges, Aleppo For Life exist to make a positive impact. The project provides individual scholarships to students aged 6 to 15, covering transportation, extra tuition, and other expenses necessary for them to reach the required level of education. Boys and girls aged 15 to 18 are also supported in achieving the required marks to apply to university. Lastly, university students are assisted in completing their courses, ensuring that education becomes a lifelong journey.

What sets Aleppo For Life apart is the personal connection between the volunteers and the sponsored students. All sponsored students and their families are personally known and regularly visited by the volunteers. The students are selected based on their commitment to education and are mentored to ensure school retention, literacy, and future livelihood. This comprehensive approach not only supports students academically but also addresses the psychological and emotional challenges they face due to the war.

The impact of this project is already visible. Improved literacy rates, community engagement, and the opportunity for vulnerable families to rebuild their lives are some of the milestones achieved. By providing a safe space for learning, schools act as a platform for dialogue and help counter the indoctrination attempts by extremists and fanatics.

Moreover, education empowers young girls and boys equally, giving them hope for a better future. The scholarships offered by Aleppo For Life include contemporary studies in digital literacy, vocational training, and foreign languages, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills necessary for employment and self-sustainability.

Education plays a vital role in rebuilding hope and stability for children in post-war Syria. The Aleppo For Life project exemplifies the transformative power of education, providing underprivileged children with the opportunity to rewrite their futures. By supporting initiatives like Aleppo For Life, we can empower children, foster resilience, and pave the way for a brighter tomorrow in war-torn regions.

Why did I go? There are many reasons, but mainly because it is time to return to this fantastic city and its resilient people. Because we should not forget that this area is part of the cradle of our civilisation, Aleppo is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world; it may have been inhabited since the sixth millennium BC. From the first human settlements to the Hittites, Assyrians, Arabs, Mongols, Greeks, Romans, and Ottomans. Christianity flourished in these lands and then cohabitated together with Islam until today.

This last war was one of many because of Syria’s geographical position as mainland access from the west to the Middle Eastern countries. An indispensable pathway from the Silk Road to today’s bloody hunt for energy. A decade of war between Iran and Russia, traditional associates of Syria on one side and Qatar and its many friends on the other, was played on Syrian grounds. If the intention was to ensure a bloody civil war and the country’s destruction, the mission has been accomplished. The war in Ukraine today looks somewhat similar: no winners, only losers.

Aleppines need a distraction and not only from the ruins of war (60% old the UNESCO’s protected old town, home to many, is gone). Ten years of war and the world pandemic have shattered the country, but the insistence on keeping cruel and useless sanctions is the main reason Syria’s economy cannot function today. No one wants the responsibility of a change of regime because it will turn Syria into another Libya/Iraq for generations and generations. Syria is out of the news; too many new dramas are clamouring for attention on the media and social channels.

Everyone I met said that life is too difficult and gets worse daily. Unemployment is vast, an average salary is $35 per month, and one egg costs $1. Electricity runs for 2 hours a day; water sometimes is cut off. Life continues in the city that once had circa 3 million inhabitants and now has 1.2. Cars are very few as petrol, Syrian petrol, is expensive and limited to 25 litres every ten days per family. This includes gas for cooking and heating. The cost of living is spiralling, and even those lucky to have a job live below the poverty line. Prices are lower than in the west but not much lower; a sandwich is $2, or 10,000 Syrian lire

Aleppo hosts many, many no profits and NGOs that help relieve hunger and reconstruct the infrastructures destroyed in ten years of war.  Many sides of the relief brought by these vast agencies are helpful for the reconstruction. However, the need for data sheets results is turning a nation of the finest traders into beggars.

The civil war has divided the country. The most vulnerable, disenfranchised, and poor, mainly living in smaller towns and the countryside, were easy targets for the various factions from inside but especially from outside Syria that wanted support. Not too different from what has happened to the USA and the UK, but with the difference that those Syrian discontented have been trained, paid, drugged, and heavily armed, and sent out to kill, together with foreign mercenaries. Now no one knows what to do with those who have survived. They are confined to the Idlib area, receive much humanitarian help and are under the influence of Turkey. No winners, only losers. Idlib protectorate and other regions of Syria could be cultivated again to provide agricultural products for all the Syrians to ease the crises. Still, the border between Idlib and the rest of the country is as close as possible. No war, no peace.

How many Syrians have left the country? Of the over 21 million Syrians in 2010, half a million have died, and 13 million are displaced within or outside the country. Christians were the 8% and now are the 2% of the population. Syrian men, women and children keep on leaving, drowning in the Mediterranean sea or being unwelcome everywhere because they feel they have no choice: scientists, doctors, entrepreneurs, builders, translators, psychologists, artists, shopkeepers, farmers, and lawyers. How will Syria survive without them?

As usual, children save the day. These lively Syrian children and young adults going through collective and personal traumas are helping their families, playing football, making friends, having hobbies, and if they can, going to school, studying, and learning. What about the future? Education is the key to the future for those affected by years of hardship and trauma. Schools are safe places for reopening the dialogue interrupted by war. The opportunity to study can be a motivation not to emigrate abroad. The danger of indoctrination to the less educated is still very real in society.  Young girls and boys can equally hope for a better future that includes digital literacy and foreign languages.  Only the opportunity to study can bring peace and a brighter future.

Once I crossed back the Lebanese border, reality hit me in full. Syria is destroyed, flattened and left without hope for the future. Lebanese border guards looked well-fed, easygoing and cracked jokes, and Lebanon is not a dream country. Lebanon has its problems but compared to Syria, it looks like Disneyland.

Olimpia Theodoli, Crete For Life President

To send a child to school in Aleppo