With the Syrian crisis in its 8th year, the Jordanian support system and Jordanian host communities are under immense pressure. Jordan hosts more than 650,000 Syrian refugees registered through UNHCR; 18.8% of whom live in camps, with the rest living in non-camp urban areas. Registered refugees receive support from UNHCR and various other INGOs, however this support does not always cover their most urgent needs. The poverty rate of Syrian refugees in Jordan is one of the highest of the countries bordering Syria with 8 out 10 registered refugees living outside the camps are either already defined as poor or soon to be living under the Jordanian poverty line (68 JD per capita per month). As a result, refugees and vulnerable Jordanians resort to negative coping mechanisms, such as reducing daily intake of calories/meals, purchasing food and other necessary items on credit, or entering under-aged children into the workforce or into early marriage.

A majority (79%) of Syrian refugees have recently identified cash to buy gas re-fill as their primary need in winter, while 22% have reported the need for NFIs (heaters, blankets and mattresses). Refugees living in Azraq camp report similar needs, apart from shelter, food and hygiene items. They depend on basic services and assistance and have little/no savings or belongings.

As of 16th March 2020, more than 170,000 COVID-19 cases were confirmed and more than 6,600 people died after contracting the virus in several countries. And on the 3rd of March, the first case of COVID-19 was discovered in Jordan (16 cases on 16th March 2020), leading all the governmental and non-governmental bodies to coordinate intensively in order to respond to any potential outbreak.

Expected Result

ER 1: 1,750 beneficiaries will have increased access to emergency cash assistance in Azraq camp to meet their most urgent protection.

ER 2: 36,548 individuals will receive WASH kits in Azraq camp.

Participants

CARE will reach all camp residents: 8,873 families (36,548 individuals). All 36,548 individuals will receive WASH kits as a preventative measure for COVID-19.

In addition, 1,750 of the most vulnerable refugees at Azraq refugee camp will receive direct cash assistance.