URGENT APPEAL: SYRIA

Greater Change has been working to help former staff in Latakia, Syria, since December 2024. Violence has escalated in the last days.

What you aren’t seeing in the media:

These are not “clashes between pro- and anti-Assad forces.” This is the systematic extermination of men, women and children who share Assad’s Alawite religion, as well as other historically persecuted minorities, including Christians and Armenians. These are ethnic and religious reprisal killings. Greater Change has received footage and photos of violence on a scale that continues to shock our seasoned humanitarian team — estimates are that 700 are now dead, and that number continues to climb, despite calls for peace.

What is Greater Change doing?

We are helping those affected by the violence to find shelter and access basic services. There is currently no water or electricity, and the sewers are filled with blood. We have set up a satellite base of operation in South Asia to support our efforts.

For more information about this work, sign up to receive our email updates at the bottom of this page and follow us on Instagram. Please consider supporting our mission in Latakia during this time.

PROJECTS

Middle East: Greater Change is currently providing child and youth programs for victims of conflict. We are continuously surveying communities and field partners to assess new projects. We take up the causes of the persecuted minorities and advocate for imprisoned saints. Learn about our work in Iraq and Afghanistan.

South Africa: In 2021, Greater Change sponsored five students to attend a special school that offers an early intervention program for children with hearing impairment. We’re helping cover the costs for tuition, transportation, school supplies, and meals for these young children so they can be equipped to enter the hearing world with an improved potential to integrate and thrive.

BENEFICIARIES OF PROJECTS

In their own words…

Our Efforts Of Greater Change in Iraq

Iraq Projects

Greater Change is embarking on a commendable initiative in Iraq by opening both a school for children and a sewing/textile group for women. This dual approach seeks to address critical educational and economic challenges in the region while empowering marginalized communities.

1. School for Children in Iraq: Greater Change recognizes the importance of education in transforming the lives of children, especially in regions affected by conflict and instability like Iraq. They are establishing a school that aims to provide quality education to underprivileged children. This initiative includes the following key components:

• Access to Education: The school is designed to offer free or affordable education to children who may not have access to quality schooling due to economic hardship, displacement, or other factors.

• Curriculum and Learning: The curriculum is likely to focus on a well-rounded education, encompassing core subjects, extracurricular activities, and vocational training to equip children with essential life skills.

• Safe and Inclusive Environment: The school will provide a safe and inclusive environment where children can learn and grow, fostering a sense of community and hope for a brighter future.

2. Sewing/Textile Group for Women in Iraq: Recognizing the economic challenges faced by women in Iraq, Greater Change is also launching a sewing and textile group. This initiative aims to empower women by providing them with opportunities for income generation and skills development:

• Vocational Training: Women will be trained in sewing and textile-related skills, enabling them to create marketable products and potentially start small businesses.

• Economic Empowerment: The group will enable women to earn a sustainable income, helping to alleviate financial hardships and promote financial independence.

• Community Support: Beyond economic benefits, the sewing/textile group will likely create a supportive community for women, fostering camaraderie and a sense of purpose.

Greater Change's dual approach of education for children and economic empowerment for women in Iraq demonstrates a commitment to holistic community development. By addressing both educational and economic challenges, they are contributing to the long-term stability and prosperity of the region while empowering individuals to build brighter futures for themselves and their families. This initiative embodies the spirit of positive change and progress.

At Greater Change, we prioritize enhancing our students' lives through a combination of educational and enjoyable activities. These activities, such as visits to the zoo, tree planting, and making learning a fun experience, play a crucial role in shaping their overall development and education in unique ways. By incorporating these activities into our educational approach, we have cultivated a comprehensive learning experience that not only imparts knowledge but also instills important values like environmental stewardship and the love of learning. To achieve this, we carefully plan each activity, making sure they align with our curriculum goals. We understand the significance of integrating these experiences with our educational objectives to maximize their impact. Ultimately, our aim is to provide a well-rounded and enriching learning experience that fosters growth and cultivates a sense of responsibility towards the environment. By infusing educational activities with enjoyment, we aim to ignite a passion for learning and create a positive impact that extends beyond the classroom.

Our Efforts Of Greater Change in Afghanistan

 AFGHANISTAN PROJECT UPDATES

Greater Change is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of people in Afghanistan. In their ongoing efforts to promote social and economic development, Greater Change has undertaken several initiatives to empower the local population and provide them with opportunities for a better future. One of their most recent initiatives involves opening three schools and a sewing/textile location for the people of Afghanistan.

• Three Schools: Greater Change's commitment to education is exemplified by the opening of three schools in Afghanistan. These schools aim to provide quality education to children and young adults in underserved communities. By offering access to education, Greater Change seeks to empower individuals with knowledge and skills that will enable them to pursue brighter futures. Education is a critical tool in breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering positive social change. Not only does opening schools in Afghanistan have the potential to make a significant difference in the lives of young boys by providing them with education, but it also provides them with safety, and a sense of purpose. Greater Change is aware that it's essential to approach this endeavor with sensitivity, cultural awareness, and a long-term perspective to ensure its success and lasting impact.

• Sewing/Textile Project: One of the most successful projects we have done is Greater Change's sewing project for Afghan women. It is a significant step towards empowering women in the region to be self-reliant, play an active role in the development of their communities and put food on the table for their families. By focusing on skill-building and income generation, this initiative contributes to broader efforts aimed at improving the social and economic landscape in Afghanistan.

In summary, Greater Change is committed to uplifting the people of Afghanistan through a multifaceted approach that includes providing education, and economic opportunities. By establishing three schools and a sewing business, Greater Change is working to create a brighter future for the Afghan community, fostering resilience, and promoting positive change in a challenging environment.

Herat City Struck by Another Earthquake: A Plea for Help

For those affected, the nightmare continues. Thousands of residents have been living in fear, sleeping outside in tents or makeshift shelters created from blankets and tarps. The very ground beneath them feels treacherous, as aftershocks continue to rock the area. They've been residing there since the first Earthquake on Saturday, enduring sleepless nights filled with the haunting uncertainty of more tremors.

OUR CALL TO ACTION: AS WE WITNESS THE RESILIENCE AND STRENGTH OF THE PEOPLE OF HERAT CITY, OUR HEARTS GO OUT TO THEM. THEIR NEED FOR AID IS URGENT AND ONGOING.

In response to this humanitarian crisis we have launched an urgent appeal for donations. The funds collected will be crucial in providing immediate assistance to the affected communities, including emergency medical care, shelter, food, and clean water. Greater Change would like to respond to at least 20 families with a $200 distribution kit, to try and help families as much as possible during this time.