Civil Defence (White Helmets) in Syria: Strengthening Inclusive Emergency Assistance

This project aims to strengthen emergency assistance to all Syrians in need particularly women and girls through support to the Syrian Civil Defence. The Syrian Civil Defence also know as the White Helmets is providing essential life saving emergency assistance to civilians in Syria since the beginning of the war. The project seeks to increase the number of trained women able to work as volunteer emergency responders with the organization. Project activities include: (1) recruiting and training new female volunteers; (2) providing them with basic equipment and a monthly stipend; and (3) providing support for the establishment of emergency service centres in Syrian communities where women can access services from women volunteers.

The expected outcomes for this project include: (1) an increased number of women are able to volunteer with the Syrian Civil Defence; (2) an increased number of women are engaged in decision making positions within the organizaiton’s management; (3) Syrian Civil Defence provides emergency response services to more people; and (4) the Syrian Civil Defence increasingly recognizes the contribution of women to emergency response.