Winter 2024 - HCI Canada

It's Sweater Weather: Share the Warmth with those in Need

Winter Poses Dangerous Risks to Vulnerable Communities

Winter is a life-threatening season for vulnerable communities worldwide. Climate change and conflict worsen conditions, especially for those in inadequate shelters. Extreme cold, limited healthcare, disrupted food supplies, and water contamination create severe health risks. The psychological impact, particularly on children, is immense. Targeted winter relief is essential to improve safety, health, and resilience.

Critical Situations in Gaza, Syria, Lebanon, and Pakistan

Displaced communities in Gaza, Syria, Lebanon, and Pakistan face dire winter risks. In Gaza, 70% of housing is damaged, crippling medical and sanitation systems. Syria’s 16.7 million people needing aid and Lebanon’s 90% of newly displaced needing food and shelter highlight urgent needs. Insufficient housing and extreme poverty leave families unable to stay warm or healthy, with children, the elderly, and those with disabilities most at risk.

Canadian Winter Challenges

In Canada, winter storms and extreme cold cause over 100 deaths annually. The high cost of essentials leaves many families struggling. We will distribute 800 winter kits and gift cards to Palestinian newcomers.

HCI’s Winter Relief Efforts

Human Concern International (HCI) is committed to providing comprehensive winter relief to those in need. Our 2024 Winter Relief program focuses on the most vulnerable communities in six regions, including Gaza. Our initiatives include:

Mattresses and Blankets: Ensuring families have the basic necessities to stay warm during freezing temperatures.
Warm Clothing: Providing coats, hats, gloves, and other essential clothing for adults and children to protect them from the cold.
Heaters and Heating Materials: Supplying heaters and fuel to help families maintain a safe and warm living environment.
Food Assistance: Delivering food packages to ensure that families have enough to eat during the harsh winter months.
Cash Support: Offering financial assistance to help families with urgent needs, including rent and home repairs.
Winterization: Providing tarps and materials to reinforce tents and makeshift shelters against the cold and moisture.

In Canada, we will work closely with communities across the country, distributing 800 winter kits in four regions and gift cards to Palestinian newcomers, helping them cope with the high costs of living essentials.

How You Can Help

It’s sweater weather, and your support is vital. Donate now to help us provide warmth and hope to those in need this winter. Every contribution makes a significant impact.

Donate Now and make a difference in the lives of vulnerable communities this winter. Thank you for your compassion.

Frequently asked questions

Who are HCI’s partners on the ground?

Due to security reasons and to protect the privacy of our partners, we cannot disclose this information.
HCI’s due diligence on partner selection follows a rigorous process consisting of the following steps:

⁠Obtaining an organisational profile that gives HCI insights into the functionality of the organisation, including but not limited to its audited financials, its annual reports, and its operational policies and procedures.
Running a media and legal background check on the organisation, its board members, and its senior staff.
3.⁠ ⁠In person and/or video call meetings with senior level staff along with HCI’s legal representative present.