RCA sends first aid convoy to Jordan as part of ''Our Hearts with Syrian People'' initiative

Abu Dhabi: A Red Crescent-sponsored convoy of winter aid left the country yesterday for Jordan as part of the ''Our Hearts with Syrian People'' initiative, a nation-wide charity telethon, called for by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to support Syrian refugees. The humanitarian drive raised more than Dh 120 million and large quantities of kind donations from Thursday to Saturday. Dr. Mohamed Ateq Al Falahi, Secretary General of the Red Crescent Authority (RCA), said the convoy was a proof that the UAE key relief agency had delivered on its promise to distribute cash and material contributions offered by good-doers to the Syrian refugees in countries neighboring Syria. ''The RCA is currently implementing an urgent relief programme based on pressing needs of Syrian refugees amidst the current severe cold weather,'' he added. He said RCA doors will remain open for donors after the three-day charity drive. Humaid Al Shamsi, Head of Relief and Emergency, RCA, said the aid truck convoy, carrying 65 tons of winter and food items, would arrive at the Emirati-Jordanian camp after two days. He added that the relief supplies would be distributed to 17,000 needy families sponsored by the RCA out of the camp in addition to refugees at Zaatari refugee camp on the Jordanian-Syrian borders. - Emirates News Agency, WAM