AMMAN -- Since WFP’s launched its Regional Emergency Operation in July 2012, the number of Syrians fleeing their country has surged. They have lost their homes, livelihoods and, in many cases, loved ones. Some arrived in refugee camps with only the clothes they were wearing. Needs continue to grow as time goes by and some refugees have now been in exile for more than a year.  They have exhausted their savings and depend on humanitarian assistance. Here is an overview of WFP's response:  

Jordan

Jordan has received tens of thousands of Syrian refugees crossing its border since March 2011 in search of a safe haven. WFP is assisting refugees through food vouchers in most of the country and through in-kind food distributions in Zaatari refugee camp and some of the transit centres hosting refugees.

Lebanon

The conflict in Syria has led to a large number of Syrians crossing the border to neighbouring Lebanon since May 2011. Hundreds of families sought protection in northern Lebanon, but over time many have also settled down in the Bekaa Valley and in the cities of Tripoli, Beirut and Saida. WFP has established a presence in the country and is assisting Syrian refugees through food vouchers throughout Lebanon.

Turkey

Turkey has been extremely generous in providing assistance to Syrian refugees.However, as the conflict continued the Turkish authorities expressed interest in including Syrian refugees it hosts in the humanitarian community’s Regional Response Plan (RRP). Accordingly, WFP is complementing the Turkish Government’s assistance through an electronic voucher system that will benefit up to 100,000 refugees this year in camps where cooking facilities are available and where they have access to local shops. 

 

Iraq

WFP, in partnership with the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and Islamic Relief Worldwide, is providing assistance to Syrian refugees in one camp in Domiz and two in Al-Qaim. By June 2013, WFP will be assisting up to 90,000 refugees through family food rations and vouchers.