The aid agency Oxfam is launching a £12 million emergency appeal to help thousands of Syrian refugees. The charity says a growing number of families are in desperate need of assistance during the winter.
Oxfam says that some 670,000 people have left Syria since the crisis began in March 2011 but numbers have risen recently. In Jordan alone, the number of people crossing daily trebled in the past week.
The cold weather has seen an increase in the number of those suffering respiratory infections and pneumonia, according to the aid agency, which is distributing mattresses, blankets, heaters and gas oil to help new arrivals.
Oxfam to help Syrian families through 'brutal' winter
Families have arrived exhausted and traumatised. Some have faced bombs and bullets to get here.
Now, they are trying to get through one of the most brutal winters in the last two decades with almost nothing. Most families have to rely on the generosity of relatives and neighbours.
Along with local organisations Oxfam is trying to help thousands of families through this difficult winter period; but we could do so much more if we had more funds.
– Oxfam's Syria crisis response manager Francis Lacasse
Oxfam launches £12m appeal to help Syrian refugees
Oxfam is launching a £12 million emergency appeal to help thousands of Syrian refugees. The charity says a growing number of families are in desperate need of assistance during the winter.
A man walks in front of a burning building after a Syrian Air force air strike in the Ain Tarma neighbourhood of Damascus. Credit: REUTERS/Mohammed Abdullah
It is hoped the appeal could help up to 120,000 people who have fled violence in Syria and crossed the borders into neighbouring countries.