To everyone’s shock, December brought the collapse of the regime. For the first time in years, return wasn’t just a dream—it was a possibility. Many of the families from Al Sarout camp made the decision to return to their villages of Sheikh Ahmed and Kafr Amma. However, their villages were severely damaged in 2020 when government forces attacked the villages and drove them out- and their homes, school, and public infrastructure are in major disrepair. This moment marked a profound shift for us - we needed to facilitate a true homecoming.

“It's true that we build our country with love, but we cannot build walls with love. With love we rebuild ourselves, our spirits, and our morals, but walls require money.”

Localization has long been a buzzword in the humanitarian sector, but turning words into deeds often requires bold leadership. CRS has stepped up, demonstrating a genuine commitment to strengthening local capacities. By ensuring fair and equitable resource allocation, they are empowering local organizations like ours to operate more sustainably and effectively.

SARD has long advocated for cash assistance as an effective modality in humanitarian aid. Beyond addressing immediate needs, cash assistance restores dignity, empowers choice, and strengthens resilience. For families like Sanaa’s, the cash-for-winter assistance allowed her to meet her immediate winter needs while she builds her sewing business.

Cash-for-Shelter Response in Türkiye: A Rapid, Flexible, and Dignified Approach to Recovery