USA for UNHCR supporters make a lifesaving difference to refugees fleeing to Europe

A year ago, the image of Alan Kurdi, the three-year-old boy who drowned while his family fled from Syria to Europe, captured the world’s attention. What followed was an outpouring of support from people around the world. As we remember the many innocent lives lost on perilous journeys to safety, let us also recognize the many lives saved by the global compassionate response.

By the end of 2015, over a million refugees had arrived in Europe. Thanks to generous donor support to USA for UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency was able to protect refugees and help them rebuild their lives.

Over 440 UNHCR staff deployed to at least 20 locations — providing food, water, warm clothing, blankets and protection to scared, vulnerable and injured women, children and men.

Maria Pamula, a UNHCR Assistant Protection Officer, saw how USA for UNHCR donor support can change lives. "I've seen how much it is valued by people — all the donations, all the contributions, that counts a lot."

Meet Maria:

Mahmoud, pictured here with his four-year-old son Jawad, fled Syria in August 2015. He, his wife Sabah and their two children have relied on UNHCR’s support from the moment they arrived in Greece: “We have been given food, blankets, tents, sleeping bags. It has been a great help.”

With generous donors by our side, the UN Refugee Agency has carried on throughout 2016 — providing aid and protection to refugees in camps and settlements throughout Europe as well as the long-term support they will need to rebuild their lives. UNHCR also acts as a voice for refugees — urging authorities to help our fellow human beings find safety and sanctuary.

Here’s how you can help …

By becoming a USA for UNHCR monthly donor, you can provide food, shelter, medical care and education to vulnerable refugees every day of the year in every corner of the world. Start making a lifesaving difference for refugees with monthly gifts today.

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