Serving Through Uncertainty, An Update From The Middle East

Our region is at war once again. As I'm sure you know, tensions across the Middle East have escalated rapidly following the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, with most of our region now involved in this new war or on high alert. I know you care deeply about the people and communities we serve, so I wanted to provide a clear update from our teams on the ground.

In Jordan, while the situation has been tense, things have remained stable overall. Air raid sirens have sounded frequently as missiles and drones pass through Jordanian airspace. The Jordanian Air Force is doing a good job intercepting incoming threats, but the repeated alarms and uncertainty have created visible stress for many families, especially children.

Despite this tension, daily life in Jordan continues with caution, and schools remain open. Our Heart of Mercy programs in Jordan are still operating and continue to serve children and families who rely on these programs. Just this past week, our team conducted humanitarian outreach in a Palestinian refugee camp amid the sirens' warnings. Our team continued working, ensuring everyone who came away with large food parcels, clothing, shoes, hygiene supplies, and more. 

In Lebanon, the situation is more precarious, as airstrikes are targeting many areas across the country. Many schools and businesses across the country have temporarily closed, with some schools opening their doors to families who have been displaced due to the violence. At this time, we are grateful to report that our staff and the participants in our programs are safe. 

Our staff remains in daily contact with program directors and families connected to our programs. While travel conditions and road safety have made some activities more difficult, our teams continue to adapt. Two days ago, we successfully held a distribution that provided families with essential food packages and much-needed clothing. 

We are also preparing for the possibility that more families are likely to be displaced in the coming days and are already coordinating with schools and shelters in the region so we can respond quickly as additional needs arise.

Across both countries, the situation remains fluid. Like many in the region, our staff and the families we serve are navigating uncertainty, but doing their best to continue forward with remarkable courage and resilience.

It is in times like these that we are reminded why the work we do is so important. We remain committed to our calling: to stand with children, refugees, and vulnerable families in both stability and crisis. And your partnership allows us to continue providing education, care, and emergency assistance when it is needed most.

In the coming weeks, we anticipate an increased need for food packages, hygiene kits, and emergency support for displaced families. If you are able, we invite you to consider making a gift to help us provide this critical aid during this uncertain time. The conflict has already driven up the prices of food, goods, and gasoline in our region (especially in Lebanon). Your gift helps us cover the rising costs and provide essential goods to those who need them most. Simply click on the button below to give. 

Just as importantly, please continue to follow along with us for updates, and keep the children, families, and communities of the Middle East in your thoughts and prayers.

Thank you for standing with us. Your compassion is bringing stability, care, and hope to those who need it most.