Image: The distribution of food and clothing to refugees by aid workers is crucial this winter.
I am moved as I listen to Meriam's words and see her courage and fearlessness. I'm sitting in her home in northern Iraq, which serves as the administrative center for relief distribution in the province. She is a local project manager in Northern Iraq, where Danish European Mission donors have ensured that thousands of people fleeing Islamic State have received food, water, medicine, kitchen equipment, blankets, fuel and clothing to get through the winter. But what is it that drives Meriam?
Why did you get into this work?
-When I walked around the city, I saw many people that nobody helped, like the Yazidis [a 'low-caste people' in Iraq]. Someone has to help them and love them. As I distribute food, I am preaching Christ.
What do you mean by preaching?
-I don't give a sermon, but when someone asks me why I help, I answer: "Jesus loves all people". That's why I do it.
Do you experience it as a calling?
-Yes, definitely.
Have you ever thought about leaving Iraq?
-No, never. My vision is to stay, as I was born here and God has called me to stay. I have been to Western Europe before, and my host thought I would use the visit to seek asylum. I said: If you gave me all of Europe, I would go back. I did that even though I had lost my husband and am therefore particularly vulnerable in a country like Iraq.
What does the help mean for girls like Samina and Salma?
Samina and Salma's parents were kidnapped by ISIS. I asked Samina: "What do you want? - A dress, a toy or something else?" She replied: "A hug". She is with me all the time when we distribute aid in the area where she lives. I see them as family and I want to give them all the love I can.
Danish European Mission works with people like Meriam who are passionate about helping people in need. Thank you to everyone who helps people like Meriam provide relief and care to displaced people in Iraq.
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* For security reasons, we cannot mention her real name or show a picture of Meriam.
