Himaya

The Himaya program, implemented in 2019-2024 as SHRAH, focuses on improving the well-being of residents in two displacement camps in northeast Syria through infrastructure projects, community-based protection approaches, and distribution of essential household items to camp residents.

Promoting Social Cohesion and Community Engagement

As community members cope with the trauma of displacement, our teams lead efforts to promote emotional recovery, including recreational activities and support groups for women and youth. Discussions and activities help break down barriers between residents from different backgrounds, fostering understanding and community cohesion. In close coordination with UNHCR—the Protection Cluster Lead—we also conduct sessions with third-country nationals who had not previously received this type of support. Community members are engaged in camp life through committees and as block leaders who help our teams identify gaps in services and raise awareness of key protection issues, such as the prevention of gender-based violence.

Improving Camp Infrastructure

We collaborate with camp residents to identify the most pressing infrastructure needs and implement effective solutions accordingly. Our efforts include the construction of bathing units, latrine units; the installation of lighting poles to improve safety at night; and the establishment of warehouses, storage and distribution centers, community centers, sports courts, child-friendly green spaces, and a women’s recreational center.

In addition, we rehabilitated community centers, built water networks, and constructed sewage networks and footpaths between tents to reduce flooding during the rainy season and prevent the spread of waterborne diseases. The projects provide shelter and access to critical needs, improve living conditions and privacy, and promote safety and inclusion. Many of the constructed spaces are also a prime location for our staff to conduct sessions and activities.

Delivering Humanitarian Assistance

Our teams have worked to meet the immediate humanitarian needs of residents. Monthly distributions of non-food items have provided families with essential household items, including mattresses, blankets, jerrycans for water, fuel, cooking stoves, and hygiene kits.