This large family is living in Gaziantep,Turkey after first escaping bombings in their village in the Damascus suburbs in 2013 and fleeing subsequent violent conditions in Raqqua and Kobani on their difficult journey. As Kurdish Syrian refugees living in Turkey, they face the additional hardship often born by Kurds; that of being vulnerable to discrimination and neglect. The family has applied for asylum in Turkey, but has received no assistance from any government agencies. Fayet, who is partially deaf, has modest income from his job working at a tile factory. The three oldest children had not previously been able to attend school because until recently they had also been working to support the family’s needs. Mahmud, the oldest boy at 13 years, worked 60 hours a week at the tile factory with his father. And the two oldest daughters, Hendirin and Delvin, 14 and 10 respectively, both worked 60 hours a week in a sewing shop. All three children have stopped working and are soon starting school in Turkey, along with their younger siblings. This very positive change in their lives has been made possible largely because of ARC support and the coordinated efforts of ARC volunteers. We have been able to secure housing and offset some basic expenses for this family, thus easing the burden of work for the children for now, allowing them to begin schooling for their futures.
Please consider supporting the Mahmud family.
Americans for Refugees In Crisis is working with volunteer Stefanie Ziervogl to help Mahmud and Yaze Oso and their children.
At this time, ARC has committed to giving 550 TL (Turkish Lira) monthly for 6 months towards rent, utilities and general needs. The organization has also paid for a phone (100 USD) for Fayet and Yaze so they can communicate with extended family members and volunteer workers, both of which are vital connections.
In addition to seeking donations for current and extended living costs, ARC is looking for help to support a business venture, such as a small market for the family to operate. Fayet hopes to start a business with his father, and Yaze is considering starting a small business as well for additional income.
If you would like to know more about the Mahmud family or would like to support them,
please contact Stefanie at
Donation