The Isle of Man Government’s Overseas Aid Committee has agreed to donate ?24,410 to the charities British Red Cross and Red International to support those harmed as a result of the current unrest in Syria, in addition to providing almost ?40,000 to Oxfam to help refugees from ongoing fighting in South Sudan.

Since March 2011, violent political unrest in Syria has led to the death and injury of thousands. Tens of thousands more have been displaced from their homes. Many of those displaced have crossed the Syrian border with Jordan, creating a need for basic provisions and supplies for those without families or relatives to host them.

The money donated by the Committee will help the charities (in conjunction with their local partners) provide an ambulance service and provision of life-saving first aid, clinics to provide health care for people with chronic conditions, distribution of hygiene kits, and of food, blankets, mattresses and cooking kits. It is estimated that almost 4,500 people will benefit from this help.

The Committee has also donated to Oxfam for its work in the newly independent country of South Sudan, where conflict on its northern border with Sudan has led to thousands fleeing to the south as refugees. Oxfam will focus its work in a refugee camp to ensure that the 85,000 people there have access to clean, safe water, sanitation facilities and hygiene equipment.
 
The Chairman of the Committee, Minister Phil Gawne said: ‘Most people will know about the crisis currently taking place in Syria, but the situation in South Sudan has not figured prominently in the media recently. Nevertheless the Committee is pleased to be able to support the efforts of these charities in helping those in need in these areas.’

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