Thanks to the sincere kindness of friends like you, we’re able to provide support for two orphanages in Aleppo, Syria. These homes are safe havens that give vulnerable children a sense of stability, love and protection in a region plagued with an ongoing humanitarian crisis and socioeconomic volatility.

Prior to receiving financial assistance from Salesian Missions, the orphanages in Aleppo lacked basic resources. They faced staffing shortages, and limited funding to meet the most critical needs of the children. In response, our missionaries initiated the Orphan Project. The program was led by Salesian Cooperators — a dedicated team of approximately 50 volunteers, who took the lead in caring for the children. The program offered activities such as sports and games, cultural and educational sessions, psychological workshops, interactive theater performances, and a carnival day. Children also had access to individual counseling sessions to begin or continue therapeutic support in a safe, confidential setting.

In the words of Maria, age 10, who has been at one of the orphanages since she was 5, “living in the orphanage sometimes feels like we live far from the rest of the world — where not many people remember us or know what our lives are like. But something changed when the Salesians missionaries came to visit us. From the moment they arrived, I felt something I hadn’t felt in a long time. I felt truly cared for.”

“The Orphan Project represents a powerful humanitarian initiative that delivers essential care and emotional support to orphaned children in Aleppo,” explains Father Michael Conway, Director of Salesian Missions. “Regardless of their religion, background or community, we serve all children. Amid the ongoing crisis in the region, this project has served as a beacon of hope, offering these children not only essential resources but also dignity, love and belonging.”

Mohammad, age 11, has lived in the orphanage for six years. He recalls a special visit by Salesian missionaries that had a huge impact on his young life, stating that, “one of the best things was when they taught us fun dances that we all did together. It made me happy. I felt like part of a family.”

Thanks to your support, we are able to provide kids like Maria and Mohammad with a safe haven amid the chaos and uncertainty that threatens their young lives. For the first time, they can experience some of the simple joys of childhood.

Learn more about our work in Syria.

Our mission is to care for children who have been abandoned, abused, orphaned and forgotten by society. What’s your mission?

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.