(Chicago, IL, 10/10/16) – The Zakat Foundation of America is making the dangerous journey through northern Syria and mobilizing in Haiti to deliver vital food, water, and hygiene supplies to disaster survivors in both countries.
Over the last six weeks the eastern part of Aleppo, Syria’s largest city, has undergone the worst bombardment in six years of ferocious war. Even hospitals and aid convoys have been targeted. Hundreds have lost their lives, and the ferocity of the bombing has left large areas of the city without basic supplies and services. The United Nations estimates that over 275,000 people are now besieged, with no end in sight. Zakat Foundation of America is sending 6 40-foot cargo trucks loaded full with food packages containing water, rice, potatoes, cooking oil, cracked wheat, and macaroni, which will reach at least 10,000 families throughout Aleppo.
This aid convoy is only the latest phase of Zakat Foundation of America’ s comprehensive support operation for Syrian civilians suffering from one the most brutal civil wars in recent memory. It complements long-running programs in education and skill training that are setting an example for transformative, lasting responses to the world refugee crisis.
Meanwhile, Hurricane Matthew has left a trail of destruction across Haiti that has left aid organizations scrambling to effectively respond. The damage is extensive, and over 1000 people have lost their lives. The country, which is one of the poorest in the world, is still feeling the effects of the massive devastation of its 2010 earthquake, which makes the recovery from the hurricane even more difficult.
Since 2010 Zakat Foundation of America has been committed to assisting the long-term recovery effort in Haiti, but the most immediate need in the wake of this disaster is for fresh food and water. Zakat Foundation of America’s partners are currently on the ground, distributing urgently needed food packages, water and hygiene kits, while also running a large soup kitchen that feeds 1,000 people per day.
These relief campaigns in Aleppo and Haiti reflect Zakat Foundation of America’s mission to act as both a first responder and a long-term partner for all communities stricken by humanitarian crises, wherever they happen and whomever they affect.
CONTACT:Zakat Foundation of America Public Relations Coordinator, Jamie Merchant, (708)233-0555, [email protected]
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Founded in 2001, Zakat Foundation of America helps generous and caring people reach out to those in need. Zakat Foundation of America’s mission is to address immediate needs and ensure the self-reliance of the poorest people around the world. Zakat Foundation of America conducts humanitarian assistance programs in more than 50 countries. For more information, please visit www.ZAKAT.org.