Embracing hope amidst hardship: Sarwa's resilience in Zaatari Camp

Sarwa's days in the Zaatari camp unfold with a blend of resilience and uncertainty. As a single mother raising two children amidst a sprawling expanse of caravans, her life mirrors the struggles faced by many other Syrian refugees living in the camp.

The Weight of Reduced Assistance

Reflecting on the past, Sarwa recalls a time when assistance provided more than just the basics for survival. "We had choices," she reminisces. "We could afford various foods. But today, we carefully pick essentials, hoping they will last until the next assistance arrives."

The recent reductions in WFP's monthly food assistance have cast a long shadow over Sarwa's family. "It's our main source of income," she says, her voice tinged with concern. "I live in constant fear of a message informing us that assistance might stop due to insufficient funding. Without it, survival feels impossible."

Education as a Beacon: Dreaming Beyond Dependency

The weight of her children's future is always present in Sarwa's thoughts. "Their education is my beacon of hope. I push through each day, ensuring they attend school, hoping that one day their degrees will lead them to a life where they won't have to depend on anyone."

However, the limitations are evident. "My heart breaks when they ask for fruits—a simple request, yet one I cannot fulfil," Sarwa shares. "They long for an apple or a banana to carry in their school bags, but we have none to give."

A Glimmer of Opportunity: Seeking Additional Work Beyond the Camp

Sarwa leaves the camp whenever a chance arises for her to work as a daily labourer on agricultural lands near the camp. This additional work offers a glimmer of hope, although temporary, as she strives to supplement the family's income.

The harsh winters bring a new set of challenges. "We struggle to keep warm, expenses skyrocket, and hunger becomes a constant companion. We're confined to our caravans, trying to make two meals a day suffice for us all."

After living in the camp for over a decade, Sarwa is eager for change. "We wake up each day hoping for a positive shift, a glimpse of a better future," she says. "But despite the hardships, we've learned to adapt."

The Lifeline of Support: Gratitude for Sustained Assistance

Amidst the uncertainty, Sarwa emphasizes the importance of sustained support. "The recent reductions in assistance have hit us hard," she acknowledges. "But thanks to donors like KSrelief, there's still a glimmer of hope. Their ongoing support is a lifeline, reminding us that there's goodness in the world."

For Sarwa, endurance is key. "I hold onto hope that things will get better. We might be facing unimaginable challenges, but we've found resilience. We've learned to navigate this difficult journey, finding comfort in the safety this camp provides."

Her story, emblematic of many others in the Zaatari camp, speaks of perseverance in the face of challenges. As she continues to navigate the trials of daily life, Sarwa embodies the resilience of a mother striving to provide for her family despite the overwhelming odds.