SYRIA: AMBASSADOR,S FUND FOR REFUGEES NOMINATION

UNCLAS DAMASCUS 000461 SIPDIS PRM/ANE FOR NHASTINGS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREF SY SUBJECT: SYRIA: AMBASSADOR,S FUND FOR REFUGEES NOMINATION REF: A. STATE 6779 ¶B. JUNE 23 HASTINGS-POUNDS E-MAIL ¶1. (SBU) Summary: Post has received a $20,000 proposal from the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and the entire East (GOPA) for two projects we would like to submit for funding through the Taft program: (1) a $20,000 program to provide vocational training and education to 80 vulnerable Iraqis and (2) a summer camp to provide psycho-social support to 50 Iraqi children and youth. Additionally, Post also proposes a second grant of $12,000 for the Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC) to provide child-friendly waiting rooms at the SARC,s medical clinics in Jeramana and Sayeda Zainab. End Summary Greek Orthodox Patriachate Project Proposal -------------- ¶2. (SBU) As provided via email separately to PRM (ref B),the GOPA,s proposal aims to assist at least 80 disadvantaged Iraqi refugees from all confessional backgrounds to continue education through enrollment in vocational training courses that would enhance their ability to in generate an income to support their families. GOPA staff will coordinate with various churches and local community and refugee organizations to identify eligible participants. In addition to the vocational training, a summer camp will be organized for 50 Iraqi vulnerable children and youth to help them cope with the difficult situation they face after leaving their country. ¶3. (SBU) GOPA will sign agreements with prominent vocational training centers in Syria that can provide certificates for participants upon satisfactory completion of the course. Training will be available for individuals who wish to acquire skills in computer science, sewing, hairstyling, English language, and life skills. ¶4. (SBU) The summer camp will be held outside Damascus in order accommodate the anticipated 50 children. The camp will be managed by volunteers who are well-versed in child development, recreational activities, and interactive educational methods. Three meals will be provided to participants in addition to transportation to and from the camp site. ¶5. (SBU) The program will be implemented over a six-month period after funding is received, and will be held in Damascus and other Damascus suburbs that house large Iraqi refugee populations. ¶6. (SBU) GOPA, in cooperation with other international and local partners, has been able to provide assistance that facilitates access to educational services for displaced Iraqis. Project Cost -------------- ¶7. (SBU) GOPA estimates the total cost of the program at $25,000. The GOPA will provide office space as part of its contributions to the total cost of the project. The following is the budget breakdown: Vocational training: $14,000 Summer Camp: $4,000 Administration, communication, transportation, and overhead: $2,000 Total: $20,000 Syrian Arab Red Crescent Proposal -------------- ¶8. (SBU) Post proposes to issue a TAFT fund grant of $12,000 to improve and make more-child friendly the enviornment in two overcrowded SARC-run health clinics in Jeramana and Sayeda Zainab. These clinics are open to all Iraqi refugees and other disadvantaged residents of these areas. --In the Jeramana clinic, we would issue a grant to refurbish the clinic,s basement waiting room, provide child-friendly tables and chairs, and install bookshelves and other child friendly surroundings. Embassy Public Affairs Section would donate children,s books in English and Arabic, a TV and video player, and other educational materials. SARC would be responsible for managing the area. Costs: Waterproofing: $2,000 Lighting: $1,000 Wall furnishings: $1,000 Tables/Chairs: $1,000 Bookshelves: $ 1,000 Total: $6,000 -In the SARC,s Sayeda Zainab clinic, Post would authorize the SARC to construct an awning over its second floor patio space that is exposed to the elements, which currently provides a waiting space for families waiting for access to the children,s clinic. The grant fund providing tables, chairs, and book cases, and the installation of indoor fans, and an airconditioning/heating unit. Costs: Awning: $2,000 A/C-Heating Unit: $ 2,000 Tables/Chairs: $ 1,000 Bookcases and fans: $ 1,000 Total: $6,000 ¶9. (SBU) Comment: Embassy Damascus chose these projects because they meet an important USG objective at post, providing humanitarian assistance to Iraqi refugees. Support for these projects will reflect continued USG support and involvement with the Iraqi refugee community in Syria. We are confident that GOPA and the SARC will provide professional and beneficial programs to enhance the standard of living of Iraqi refugees in Syria through the implementation of the proposed projects. End Comment. CORBIN