One of the harshest and coldest seasons experienced throughout the year has arrived and it calls for winter charity. It’s heartbreaking to see vulnerable communities shivering in freezing temperatures. Prolonged exposure to cold weather induces a myriad of health conditions. With most of the population on the edge of deprivation, millions of individuals are anxious, exhausted, and unable to plan for a future that seems vague.
People in countries suffering from financial distress cannot afford to protect themselves with warm clothes, food, and medicine. Therefore, winter becomes far more challenging for the war-fled refugees. Many families have no option but to choose between food and warmth.
In times of distress like this, it becomes essential for us to reach out to those who are struggling. So, let us reflect on the impact of the bitter winter and how our humanitarian support can help them survive with the gift of hope, faith, and love.
Sufferings of Vulnerable Communities Around the World
Winter season is a test of survival for many people around the world. If we look beyond the comfort of our cozy homes, millions of unfortunate people worldwide are on the verge of death. The poverty-stricken, war-ridden, homeless people and refugees are the most prone to winter extremities. They are taking shelter in makeshift tents and under fragile roofs, with many still living in the rubbles of destroyed homes. Refugee camps are beginning to deteriorate under harsh conditions. Although the situation may differ from countries around the world, winter poses a severe threat in every society across the globe.
Winter hits countries like Pakistan, Lebanon, and Jordan the hardest. A recent study has showcased that the extreme winter has killed 20 times more people than hot weather between 1985 and 2012.
6.5 million internally displaced refugees are living lives in uncertainty. 1 in 6 children in the USA lives below the poverty line. In the past three years, 85,000 children under the age of five have died from famine, according to the UN.
Poverty brings tremendous pain during winter in Pakistan. People have to choose between basic needs and warm clothes. Approximately 26 million impoverished people in Pakistan are suffering a great deal. Children in Pakistan are at risk of malnutrition. UNICEF estimates that 1 in 2 children under age 5 in Afghanistan will become acutely malnourished.
Most of Lebanon’s population lives well below the poverty line, unable to purchase food, medicine, fuel, and many other necessities.
We must respond with urgent winter charity to save vulnerable communities from freezing temperatures, the spread of disease, and so much more. Here are some charitable contributions you can make to make a meaningful difference in their lives.
How UMR Responds to Winter Sufferings
We cannot allow another family to choose between paying rent or putting food on the table. Every year, UMR provides families in need with Winter Care Kits containing essential items such as coats, hats, scarves, and more.
Our winter kit contains the following:
- Clothing items (coats, scarves, sweaters, boots, pajamas, long underwear – for both adults and children)
- Non-perishable food items (beans, rice, pasta, sugar, oil, tomato paste, etc.).
- Hygiene products (soaps, sanitizers, and more).
