Project Visit: Firefly for Syrians – Hope and Hardship North Syria, Winter 2025 

Update Maria chambers, Project Director, Firefly International

In returning to Syria for the first time since the fall of the regime and the return of our Firefly for Syrians staff I felt a touch of what they all must have felt upon returning to their homeland, trepidation, joy & anticipation. One of the first things that hit you as you cross the border is the scale of devastation that still exists across these post-war communities.

Entire neighbourhoods bear the scars of years of conflict, and the need, everywhere, is immense. Yet alongside this hardship, I witnessed something profoundly moving: a deep optimism among our staff, who remain committed to rebuilding their country, piece by piece. While travelling through Syria your eyes get used to the rubble and bullet holes, and the signs of life being reclaimed become more obvious.

It was amazing to meet our staff and families who have returned after years as refugees. Many are overjoyed to be back on their homeland’s soil having relinquished their refugee status in Turkey, yet they face unimaginable challenges. At the same time, the suffering of those who stayed throughout the war is still very visible – people living with limited resources, depleted services, and ongoing trauma. Everyone I spoke to shared a personal tragedy. 

The economic situation only adds to the strain: with the Syrian lira now at 14,750 to the pound, daily life has become almost unmanageable. I found myself walking around with bags of cash just to buy fruit – a simple transaction that illustrates how surreal and precarious the economy has become

Across all locations, the children’s needs are urgent. One of the most striking realities of the trip was discovering that 150 children are currently on the waiting list for our early years programme in the most deprived areas – places where no other services exist. We are determined to get these children into our classrooms as soon as possible. This gap exists simply because of funding, and thanks to generous supporters like you, we can make a difference. 

“Since returning to Syria and living with my family in our devastated homeland, I am more determined than ever to give our children the beginning in life they deserve. In today’s Syria, stepping into a caring classroom is a rare gift; to read, write, and play is not only a privilege, it is a child’s fundamental right. Our nation needs far more than the reconstruction of buildings – years of war have stripped away colour, dignity, laughter, and the freedom to imagine. Rebuilding Syria means restoring these truths, nurturing hope and possibility in every teacher and child that we reach.”

Fadia, Director Firefly for Syrians

Many households have endured years of poverty, displacement, and psychological strain. In some families, the depression is palpable; in others, the sheer exhaustion of survival is evident. Yet what struck me over and over again was the extraordinary generosity of these communities. Despite having so little, people extend warmth, hospitality, and a powerful will to serve their neighbours and rebuild what they’ve lost.

Your support allows us to stand with them – creating vibrant friendly  safe spaces for children, providing education where none exists, and strengthening the remarkable local teams who are driving change from within. 

Thank you for staying with us through these painful and hopeful moments. Your support truly means more than words can express.