Today, Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman met with the Syria Civil Defence, also known as the White Helmets, and the Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS) to discuss the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Syria.
Deputy Administrator Coleman thanked both the White Helmets and SAMS for their life-saving work, and for sharing their valuable insights regarding the situation on the ground in northwest Syria following February's deadly earthquakes. The USAID team also expressed condolences for staff, volunteers, and their loved ones who tragically passed away because of the earthquakes.
Deputy Administrator Coleman and White Helmets Chairman, Raed Al Saleh also discussed the Agency's partnership with the White Helmets and commitment to localizing development assistance. They also discussed opportunities to expand partnerships with other local organizations to continue supporting those affected both by the earthquake and the Assad regime's continued violence.
The U.S. government remains steadfast in its support for the Syrian people, recognizing that the needs on the ground are at their highest levels since the conflict began. Deputy Administrator Coleman emphasized the importance of keeping a spotlight on the Syrian people that have been impacted by conflict and natural disasters.
