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Save the Date: August 6, 2021 By Alice Seeley Published On July 2, 2021

Rescued from a "Living Grave" When ISIS invaded the Nineveh Plain, life became very difficult for many of the refugees American FRRME supports. However, due to Iraq’s war-torn history, the Baltoo family (names have been changed to protect the family’s identity) experienced hardship long before this. Sander, the father of the family of seven, had moved his growing family from Qaraqosh to Baghdad in hopes of finding work to support them. There, Sander was targeted by Al Qaeda because his brother worked for the U.S. government/military as an engineer. As an immediate family member of someone directly working for and supporting the U.S., as well as a devout Syrian Orthodox Christian, Sander was targeted and kidnapped in 2009. He was taken from his family at gunpoint, pushed into an unmarked underground tunnel in the middle of nowhere, blindfolded, beaten, and ultimately abandoned and left for dead without food or water. It was essentially a “living grave.” Sander spent 4 days alone in the dark hole in the ground, thinking he would never see his family again. Injured by the beatings and brutality experienced at the hands of his kidnappers, Sander prayed desperately that he would be rescued and reunited with his family. Four days later, his prayers were answered. He was found and liberated by U.S. forces, who let him out of the hole in the ground. ​ Though Sander was reunited with his family, he suffered greatly from this experience. He lost all hearing in his left ear due to the beatings and experienced flashbacks and panic attacks. The kidnapping was only the beginning of the hardships his family would experience. In its aftermath, Sander struggled to provide for his family. He continued to have flashbacks. His family was still receiving threats. They no longer felt safe in Iraq. They made their way to Erbil and continued to struggle, getting by through the support of the Syrian Orthodox Church and other Christians. Once ISIS invaded, they fled to Jordan. They now live in Marka, one of the poorest areas of Amman, the entire family crowded into a one-bedroom apartment. Sander, still experiencing panic attacks and flashbacks, struggles to provide basic necessities for his family. His youngest child has many medical problems and has had head surgery. The family is unable to pay rent, medical expenses, and put food on the table, so they often have to choose which the biggest priority is. However, despite these ever-present hardships, what has remained unwavering throughout each ordeal on their journey has been their faith. And without the support of the Syrian Orthodox Church (one of American FRRME’s longstanding partners), the Baltoo family and families like them would have no means of support. American FRRME is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that promotes reconciliation, provides relief efforts, advances human rights, and seeks an end to sectarian violence in the Middle East.

Iran is Squeezing Christians and Minorities out of the Middle East, Says Researcher By Keely Jahns Published On June 2, 2022 A researcher with the Philos Project told journalists in February that Iran is squeezing non-Muslims out of the country, and is fighting to do the same in nearby states such as Iraq and Syria. In these neighboring nations, Iran is taking advantage of local political instability to gain a foothold in a war torn region. ​ Senior Research Fellow Dr. Farhad Rezaei, an Iranian Kurd, is a Christian convert who fled Iran and now teaches at York University and resides in Canada. The Philos Project is a nonprofit group that educates and advocates for Christians in the Middle East. ​ Rezaei said, during a February 2022 briefing, that only Sunni Jihadists have contributed to the persecution of Christians in the Middle East is “too simplistic,” and ignores the influence of Iran-backed militias in countries like Iraq. ​ These Iran-backed militias are especially prevalent in Northern Iraq, where the majority of the refugees in our programs are from. This is little-known internationally, as the spotlight has often been on ISIS, and prior to that, Al-Qaeda. However, sources such as Reuters , have shed light on Iranian combat troops believed to have been stationed in Iraq since 2014. ​ A native Iranian, Rezaei noted that since the country’s 1979 revolution, Islamic leaders in Iran have described adherents to minority religions such as Christianity and Judaism as “pollution,” and have taken steps to shrink the size of the Christian and Jewish communities by pushing them out of the country. ​ In Iraq, Rezaei noted, Iran-backed Shiite militias have carried out numerous abductions, killings, and sexual assaults in recent years. They have also seized large areas of land belonging to Christians, especially in the Nineveh Plain. In total, at least 20,000 acres of farmland have been burned, and the militias have carried out at least 75 attacks on places of worship, with at least nine instances of using a church as a military base. ​ Many of these crimes have been solely attributed to Sunni jihadist groups such as the Islamic State, rather than Iran. In Northern Iraq, it’s not widely known that Iranian forces are occupying large areas, with Shiite forces squeezing the native Christians out by seizing property. Just as the Sunni-backed Islamic State, Shiite-backed Iran is competing for control in a politically unstable region. On top of all of this, Turkey is also fighting a proxy war in Northern Iraq, and has bombed several towns on the Nineveh Plain since last year. ​ A region rife with Islamic extremism, Sunni jihadists groups are also still an active scourge on the region. That cannot be understated. Only a few months ago, we reported that jihadist tensions along the Iraq-Syria border were being watched carefully by Iraqi Christians. ​ It was not long ago that ISIS waged war on Christians and Yazidis in the Nineveh Plain, attacking towns, burning churches, forcing conversions and killing families. Most that were able to leave were only able to escape with the clothes on their backs, facing uncertain futures in neighboring nations. Those futures are still uncertain for those who have stayed and those who are now returning. ​ From the February 2022 killing of Abu Ibrahim al Hashimi al-Qurayshi, al-Baghdadi’s successor of head of ISIS, to the Turkish air raids in Kurdistan, to the assault on Ghwayran prison, tensions have been heightened on the Iraqi-Syrian border. As the conflict has escalated, ISIS affiliated militias, who once controlled half of the territories between the two nations, maintain active sleeper cells, ready to strike. ​ The tensions between the two Islamic extremist groups, wrought with layers upon layers of political turmoil, religious difference, and a hatred of anyone deemed “other;” has boiled over and impacted hundreds of thousands of innocents in the Nineveh Plain over the last decade. Regional clashes between different militias, minority groups, and facets of the Iraqi government have also recently displaced over 1,000 Yazidi families on the Nineveh Plain . This is unfortunately not the first time that the Yazidis have been uprooted from their homeland. ​ In a region rife with political turmoil, the Christians, Yazidis, and Shabak of the Nineveh Plain need our help now more than ever before. The refugees who have fled their homelands in search of peaceful and stable futures, from 2014 onward, need programs to help their bodies, minds, and spirits recover from the intense trauma they have experienced. ​ In the wake of the growing refugee crisis around the world, more programs are needed like the ones administered by American FRRME. Unfortunately, refugees are among the world’s most underserved populations. ​ Life is not easy for Iraqi refugees. As adversity grows, programs are needed to protect the most vulnerable of these refugees. American FRRME is committed to long term self-sustaining programs and opportunities to help empower refugees and Internally Displaced Persons. Donations to American FRRME go to programs that will aid in the survival of families facing violence across the Middle East.

You’re Invited! By Alice Seeley Published On July 21, 2021 Join us via Zoom for a special, live event on August 6th at the Olive Tree Center in Madaba, Jordan, to observe the seven year anniversary of the ISIS invasion of the Nineveh Plain. We will be celebrating the survivors and their growth at the Olive Tree Center. There will be exclusive performances of music, dance, drama, and poetry that share the unique culture of each refugee and glorifies Christ. Each performance will serve to show how the refugees are finding healing at the center and to share their wealth of cultural knowledge and creativity with the world.

Meet Pastor Zaki By Alice Seeley Published On May 17, 2021 Fourteen years ago, Pastor Zaki opened the only church in the Gardens area of Amman; The Nazarene Church. In 2015, God placed another desire in his heart. ​ A man came to see Pastor Zaki saying, “I want to give you money for the refugees.” Zaki replied, “There are no refugees here,” and sent him away. Later that day, Zaki was reading his Bible and God convicted him through these words from Leviticus: “When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself.” Suddenly, his eyes were opened to the plight of the refugees in Jordan. Pastor Zaki felt compelled to relieve the suffering of Iraqi Christian refugees. He immediately took action. ​ “We had a vision to start something here,” says Zaki. “We rented a house; we opened our doors and we started inviting Iraqis.” In Jordan, there has been an increased need for therapy. These refugees’ wounds are rooted in the past and continue to cause physical, emotional, and mental distress. Zaki decided to work in a practical way to help these refugees. “As the Body of Christ, we are Ambassadors to show His love for others. This is the beauty of the Body of Christ – we work together for His glory,” Pastor Zaki said. ​ With American FRRME’s support, Zaki opened a center for 300 refugee families. These families fled from the invasion of ISIS in Iraq. This center offers therapeutic activities, education classes including English, sewing, and music. The center also distributes food relief to the families. These refugees now have a safe place to work through their pain and connect with others. ​ This is only made possible through your donations! Please donate today to help provide therapy and other necessary services to the refugee community in Jordan. ​ American FRRME is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that promotes reconciliation, provides relief efforts, advances human rights, and seeks an end to sectarian violence in the Middle East.

A beacon of hope, help, and healing By Alice Seeley Published On September 1, 2021 Did you know that Christians are the minority of the minorities in Baghdad? “I worry for the future of the Christians in Iraq. I pray that God will save us from what could happen in the future,” said Canon Faez Jirees, the only Anglican priest in Baghdad. Christians have fewer rights than other citizens and are the most vulnerable population in Baghdad. ​ Then the COVID pandemic hit… ​ “The situation for Christians in Baghdad was bad,” says Faez, “then the Coronavirus made it worse. We were working hard at St George’s Medical Clinic to improve the situation, but the virus restricted our work.” ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ St. George’s Medical Clinic treats 2,000 patients each month for FREE! The pandemic restricted the work of the clinic, yet, at great risk to themselves, the medical team pressed on. This clinic is only made possible through your support! ​ As scripture says: “Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others.”(Philippians 2:4) ​ Can you help St. George’s continue their work? Your donations will help provide FREE medical care to the poor and the sick of Baghdad, including widows, children, and the disabled.

Olive Tree Center Open House By Keely Jahns Published On June 17, 2022 We are proud to announce our upcoming Olive Tree Center Open House, on June 24th, 2022. Join us from 6-8 PM for traditional Iraqi food, music, dance, artwork, culture and FUN! There will be mosaics on display, created by the refugees at the center. Enjoy learning more about our outreach, and the many classes, apprenticeship programs, and therapy groups that the OTC has to offer. ​ Learn more about Iraqi Christian traditions, and help support these deserving people and the programs that are bringing help, hope, and healing to the refugee community in Madaba. If you are in the area, we’d love for you to join us. ​ ADDRESS: ​ 1492 Land Parcel #6 Madaba, Jordan ​ Near University Bus Stop Beside Target One Supermarket Contact: +962 7 7667 8120 ​ We hope to see you there!

Helping The Strangers Among Us By Alice Seeley Published On July 24, 2020 70.8 million people around the world are currently refugees. They have been forced to flee from their homes because of violence, persecution, and war. As Christians, we are called to love and help them. They are what the Bible calls “the strangers among us.” ​ The call to help these refugees in need is biblically founded, not just a nice thought or a principle of social justice. Jesus demonstrated this by becoming a refugee Himself, fleeing with His parents to Egypt to escape persecution from King Herod. ​ In the Old Testament, Leviticus 19:34 says “treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you and … love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt”. ​ In the New Testament, Our Lord tells the parable of the Good Samaritan to give us an example of caring for and loving those whom society rejects. ​ Finally, in Matthew’s gospel, Jesus says that when we feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, welcome the stranger, clothe the naked, and visit the sick and those in prison, we are doing it to Him. When we fail to do those things, we fail to serve Him. Jesus puts this in the strongest terms possible: if we neglect to do this we will not inherit the Kingdom. “Then He will answer, “In truth, I tell you, in so far as you neglected to do this to one of the least of these, you neglected to do it to me. And they will go away to eternal punishment, and the upright to eternal life.” ​ We as Christians are called to show God’s love to the most vulnerable in their hour of need. Government assistance can only help so much. The current refugee crisis creates opportunities for Christians to reach out and demonstrate the love of Christ. This means not only offering financial assistance but also praying for and welcoming these refugees whose entire lives have been turned upside down. American FRRME is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that promotes reconciliation, provides relief efforts, advances human rights, and seeks an end to sectarian violence in the Middle East. ​ To make a donation to American FRRME, please visit https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/frrmeamerica?code=WebsiteGeneral

General Greer Scholarship Fund to Provide Education to Refugees in Jordan By Keely Jahns Published On March 10, 2022 In the West, most children are afforded a K-12 education. In places like the United States, as well as in many European countries, children are guaranteed an option of free public education. This sets children up for success in life, providing opportunities for university education, trade school, and general career advancement. ​ Not everyone in the world is so privileged. ​ According to a 2019 report by the UN Refugee Agency, out of 7.2 million refugee children around the world, only 3.7 million have the opportunity to attend school. Globally, 91% of children attend elementary (primary) school, whereas only 63% of refugee children have this opportunity. ​ The situation is even bleaker as refugee children get older. Around the world, 84 percent of adolescents go to secondary school, while only 24 percent of refugee teens have this opportunity. As these young people get older, the barriers that prevent them from accessing learning become harder to overcome. Continuing past the 8th grade is one of the deciding factors in whether or not a child finishes their education. ​ In most developing countries, particularly among war torn populations, it is common for youth to drop out of primary and secondary school for reasons of cost or a need to support their families. Where there is education, it is not guaranteed to be free, either, even when tuition is at low or no cost. There is the concern of uniforms, books, and supplies, often as a requirement to attend. This is incredibly cost prohibitive for vulnerable families. ​ The children supported by the Olive Tree Center in Madaba, Jordan are part of many programs aimed at providing hope, help, and healing for the intense trauma that many experienced as they fled their homes at a young age. Healing after trauma is a complex process, and one of the most critical pieces of the puzzle is providing young people with educational opportunities that will allow them to advance in life. ​ Education protects refugees and their children from forced recruitment into armed groups, child labor, and sexual exploitation. Education empowers refugees by giving them the knowledge and skills to rebuild their lives and communities. We are passionate about providing education to those displaced by sectarian violence. ​ That is why we have implemented the General David E. Greer Scholarship. Named for our late executive director, General David Greer, this legacy scholarship will fulfill his dream of providing educational access to the children of Iraqi, Kurdish, and Syrian refugees in Jordan. ​ Brigadier General David Greer dedicated his life to helping those in need. He was a decorated member of the Army National Guard who proudly accepted the task of rebuilding lives in Iraq, even well into his retirement from the armed forces. It was there that he saw the need of the people, particularly persecuted Christians, and helped to establish programs that would improve their lives. ​ While in Baghdad, he established a Boy Scout Troop, and assisted St. George’s Anglican Church in obtaining reconstruction grants through the US State Department. He helped the church construct a Kindergarten with clean, safe restrooms – something that is not always guaranteed in schools across the Middle East and the developing world. ​ A life-long student, much of General Greer’s efforts were centered around providing education to vulnerable children. As a member of philanthropic organizations, he supported scholarships, a large number of them through his alma mater, the University of Tennessee. As Executive Director of American FRRME, he advocated for and obtained funding education for the refugee children in Jordan, as well as helped establish a school in Kurdistan for Yazidi girls. ​ It is absolutely imperative that the school-aged children and teenagers in Jordan’s refugee communities remain in school. Even though they cannot work in Jordan, an education that is accepted by the rest of the world will enable them to settle wherever they dream to, and enter whatever fields they choose. But, there are barriers that prevent educational access for these children. Although Jordanian children are almost universally educated, refugee children are not afforded the same opportunities. ​ In a 2017 survey of Syrian refugees, it was reported that only a third of their children were enrolled in school. Since then, educational access has improved, but is by no means perfect; nor is it completely free. As you may already know, most refugee families in Jordan rely on humanitarian assistance to survive. They are not afforded citizenship or work permits, and can be deported if found working for pay. Supplies, uniforms, and even transportation to and from school cost money that most refugee families do not have. ​ The General Greer Scholarship Fund will help keep these vulnerable students in school. The fund will help pay for school supplies, uniforms, transportation, and to fund tutoring services, music lessons, and English lessons at the Olive Tree Center. This scholarship will provide an opportunity for these deserving students to receive a well-rounded education. ​ The youth at the Olive Tree Center have truly lost everything. Many of them are coming of age now, in 2022, and spent most of their formative years fleeing from danger. Many experienced the horrors of ISIS first hand. These kids have overcome so much, and still have many obstacles left to overcome. We want to help these young people grow and have every opportunity to advance in life. They are truly deserving of better lives, and a solid education and a supportive environment like the Olive Tree Center is their best chance, where they can gain the confidence they need to succeed in the classroom. ​ Life is not easy for refugees in Jordan and other parts of the Middle East. As adversity grows, programs are needed to protect the most vulnerable of these refugees, the children. American FRRME is committed to long term self-sustaining programs and opportunities to help empower refugees and Internally Displaced Persons. Donations to American FRRME go to programs that will aid in the survival of families facing violence across the Middle East.

The Olive Tree Center’s Hope Restored By Alice Seeley Published On July 21, 2021 Join us via Zoom for a special, live event on August 6th at the Olive Tree Center in Madaba, Jordan, to observe the seven year anniversary of the ISIS invasion of the Nineveh Plain. We will be celebrating the survivors and their growth at the Olive Tree Center. There will be exclusive performances of music, dance, drama, and poetry that share the unique culture of each refugee and glorifies Christ. Each performance will serve to show how the refugees are finding healing at the center and to share their wealth of cultural knowledge and creativity with the world.

Field Notes from Helena By Alice Seeley Published On April 16, 2021 OLIVE TREE CENTER UPDATES The Olive Tree Center remains open with art, piano, guitar, salon, gardening, and English language (beginner, intermediate grammar & conversation) classes. Mahmoud, a Jordanian Muslim artist, started classes and is very popular; He teaches adults and children, and class attendance by Iraqi men has particularly increased. Piano & guitar classes led by two Jordanian young men continue to positively impact children and adults alike. It is the very first time many of the refugees have been able to access the music class. The Olive Tree Center continues to serve as a hub for relief operations (clothing, vitamin, & food coupon distributions). Once the pandemic ends, American FRRME will host an “open house” Iraqi cultural event. This will be open to the community and invite members from Embassies, the international community, local businesses, and more. Attendees will enjoy a “taste of Iraqi culture.” This will advance our efforts to ease community tension and divides, as well as facilitate strong and positive community relationships. Garden Project The garden at the Olive Tree Center continues to flourish and provide fresh produce to refugee families with Azad as the lead gardener. Azad and other Iraqi refugee men constructed a garden shed in order to keep maintenance/workshop tools and gardening supplies safely away from children. This project provides sustenance to the community as well as a way to empower Iraqi men to garden together and serve the community. The “Youth gardening initiative” has taken off and Azad is not only gardening but imparting his gardening skills and knowledge to youth in the community starting with his son, Andi. This provides an outlet for some of the teens outside during COVID. Mask Making Project The Mask Making & Sewing Project led by refugee sisters, Leka and Ashwak, in Madaba, continues to thrive and provide vital support to the refugee communities. As the project expands, two other refugee women have taken active roles in leadership roles. All have AFRRME provided sewing machines and are very excited to participate in the project! Two of the women have physical ailments and have been unable to get to the Center so having access to the AFRRME sewing machines in their homes has provided much joy throughout the limitations and difficulties of COVID. This project has led to the creation of aprons, masks, potholders, baby clothes, and pillowcases, among other items. The provision of more sewing machines to the refugee women gives them a way to not only make essential items for themselves and their community but will ultimately help them secure a means to make money. PARTNERSHIP UPDATES ​ Nazarene Church, Pastor Zaki Through the Nazarene Church partnership, American FRRME continues to support the Youth Empowerment & Trauma healing Center along with refugee food package assistance. Though there have been adjustments to the center, the refugee community still has access to classes (English language, IT, woodworking, sewing/knitting) with strict adherence to small class sizes. Due to COVID and all of the restrictions, Pastor Zaki’s ministry has had to temporarily stop the work in Mafraq (outreach to Syrian Muslim refugees living outside of Zataari camp). He hopes to resume these efforts in the future. Pastor Zaki continues to minister to the sick, elderly, poor Jordanians, along with the Iraqi refugee community. He is very active and engaged and has continued online church services & support services throughout the pandemic even without the church physically being able to hold services. Syrian Orthodox Church, Father Benjamin Relief efforts continue to support over 500 Iraqi refugee families through food packages, medical assistance, rent, and immigration support, as well as regular home visits conducted to assess welfare and needs. The refugees we support have been hit very hard by the pandemic. They are living in the worst conditions in very cramped and difficult accommodations. American FRRME continues to reach this community through a combination of relief provided at the Syrian Orthodox Church and home visits to those unable to get to the church. Assemblies of God Church, Madaba, Pastor Yoo We continue to support the refugee community in Madaba and the 120 families who attend the Full Gospel Church with food coupons, transportation to church, youth group support, mask making, garden projects, support groups, and “empowerment” projects. American FRRME continues to support the very active ministry of the Full Gospel Church through home visits to the community, rent support, medical support, and education assistance along with the wide range of programs offered at the Olive Tree Center. Greek Catholic Church, Fuheis, Father Bolis American FRRME continues to support the partnership at the Greek Catholic Church through the food coupon program and further development opportunities. 250 refugee families receive food coupons to local grocery stores. There is an exciting opportunity to open a second “Garden of Hope” in Fuheis on land owned by the Church. The land is currently unoccupied and is an ideal plot of land for the refugee community to engage in. The establishment of a greenhouse could ensure the scale and impact of this garden and could fuel the refugee community with fresh fruit, produce, and olive oil (there are existing olive trees). American FRRME- COVID-19 Relief Strategy Update: Jordan is currently experiencing a surge in numbers and is at the peak of the second wave. Friday lockdowns, curfew, and Internet restrictions continue. Travel is still extremely difficult. A year into the pandemic, American FRRME’s mission remains a crucial facilitator of empowerment, growth, community outreach, and development opportunities. Our team continues to provide much-needed relief services to those we support. It is very much appreciated by the refugee communities American FRRME supports. Field Notes from Helena By Alice Seeley Published On January 28, 2021 Olive Tree Center as a relief center during COVID-19 ​ The Olive Tree Center (OTC) continues to serve as a safe and compliant base for relief operations. While its doors were closed as a Center, the OTC never stopped serving the refugee community. With strict adherence to social distancing and mask and gloves and in full compliance with the government rules and regulations, food coupon and package distributions, family support, mask making and gardening have flourished at the Center. Limiting the actual body count and maintaining proper safety measures has enabled us to still get essential support to the refugees in Madaba and to make use of the center while providing services. ​ Churches were legally allowed to open on Sunday, June 7th, with strict adherence to government rules. The masks American FRRME provides are vital to enabling refugees to get to church. ​ American FRRME COVID RELIEF STRATEGY UPDATE ​ American FRRME successfully implemented the COVID relief plan despite the many government restrictions of movement, lockdowns, and curfew implementation. Borders between towns reopened and internal travel with cars is now allowed. Helena Scott is able to travel directly to all American FRRME partnerships and refugee communities. Wellness Checks were performed by American FRRME to the most at-risk refugees throughout all the communities American FRRME supports, as soon as travel was allowed and restrictions lifted. American FRRME has remained fully compliant with government rules and regulations, wearing a mask and gloves whenever directly distributing relief. ​ Partnership Updates ​ Nazarene Church – Pastor Zaki ​ American FRRME continues throughout COVID to provide food packages and supplies to the refugees who attend the Nazarene Church, along with much-needed food packages and hygiene kits to some Syrian refugees in Mafraq. ​ Syrian Orthodox Church – Father Benjamin ​ Relief efforts continued in June to reach the 583 families American FRRME supports via the Syrian Orthodox Church. Father Benjamin has not been able to be mobile due to recent surgery, so Helena Scott has been conducting home visits directly to families most in need. ​ Assemblies of God Church In Madaba – Pastor Yoo ​ FRRME-A/FRRME support of the refugee community in Madaba and the 120 families who attend the Full Gospel Church was unwavering, food coupons provided as well as OTC offerings. ​ Greek Catholic Church In Fuheis – Father Bolis ​ American FRRME continues to support the refugee families in Fuheis via the Greek Catholic Church. Now that the border is open and travel is allowed, providing relief and support has been much easier. ​ Proposed Initiatives ​ Expansion of “garden of hope” to Full Gospel Church. The Garden of Hope initiative at the OTC has really taken off. It has provided much-needed hope and growth, and will eventually provide food for the refugee community in Madaba. The Full Gospel Church has excess land where we could facilitate the expansion of these efforts. If American FRRME can fund the garden project at the Full Gospel Church we can expand the gardening efforts. ​ As American FRRME continues to make the shift from providing relief to creating more sustainable solutions, this gardening initiative perfectly reflects that shift–providing hope, help, and healing through gardening. ​ As soon as the OTC officially opens we can live stream traditional Iraqi cooking classes by refugees, to obtain donations from donors, host cooking classes, and give the diplomat and ex-pat community a “taste of Iraq” through delicious cooking. ​ Proposed “Open House” at OTC to launch reopening post-Corona ​ To be safely planned and coordinated once the OTC can safely and legally reopen. ​ Youth Project ​ Additional funding for a youth project would be much appreciated. Children have been stuck in tiny apartments with their entire families. The need to do something special for the youth is very present. ​ As Jordan continues the reopening process, pools and waterparks may safely reopen at some point this summer. The airport is still closed, but travel within Jordan is much more accessible. As an organization, we are remaining vigilant and adhering to all safety measures during distributions. Society as a whole is struggling as people are still out of work. The need for support remains great and all communities are appreciative of what we are able to provide. ​ Mental Health services are needed now more than ever, and as the OTC awaits reopening, American FRRME has the chance to continue to make a significant impact. Field Notes from Helena By Alice Seeley Published On November 20, 2020 American FRRME- COVID-19 Relief Strategy Update: ​ American FRRME has continued to implement all government-imposed criteria necessary to safely reopen The Olive Tree Center. This includes hand sanitizer being mounted on walls, regular cleaning, mask-wearing, regulation of class and center attendance, and social distancing implemented in all classes. ​ Olive Tree Center COVID-19 Update: ​ Due to the increased number of COVID-19 cases in Jordan, lockdowns and Internet restrictions have continued. Complete lockdown started on Tuesday, November 10th, and will remain in place until determined by the government. American FRRME is doing all we can to provide hope and mental health initiatives during this challenging time. The Olive Tree Center’s ability to remain open has been instrumental and has provided much-needed support and hope. Depression across the country is on the rise, and safely enabling refugees to get out of their very small accommodation and give them activities and classes to engage in has been invaluable. ​ Olive Tree Center Updates: ​ English language (conversation & grammar) beginner, intermediate and advanced, music and art classes continued throughout October. Helena Scott resumed conversational English classes post quarantine. Students are very happy with the new “ESL” (English as a second language) curriculum. Guitar classes for children have expanded in order to keep class sizes small to comply to COVID-19 restrictions. Piano classes have started and have become very popular. Mahmoud Omar, a local artist, agreed to start weekly adult art classes. The community is very excited about the possibility of photography classes. The OTC hosted cosmetology workshops for small and safe class sizes for the Iraqi women, led by Ibtisam, an Iraqi refugee with years of salon/beauty care experience. The refugee women asked for this class as they are eager to learn skills they can use for new jobs (most had their education disrupted) and they are interested in certificates for various trades. The workshop took place every Saturday throughout the month and will continue. There is a high demand for computer skills classes. Refugees are very interested in learning basic computer skills such as typing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint, etc. This will equip them for a variety of jobs. Helena Scott received donations from the US embassy this past month and distributed them at the Olive Tree Center. Olive Tree Center Workshops: ​ American FRRME currently supports a woodworking workshop at the Nazarene Church in Amman. The refugee men work on handicrafts such as crosses, trays, bowls, small vases, and other wood items. Exercise classes have been established on the roof of the Olive Tree Center. Yoga teacher volunteers are ready to start once the lockdown is lifted. American FRRME has a health initiative and provides fruit and healthy snacks at the Olive Tree Center. Naseem, the son of artist Mahmoud, is a personal trainer and has volunteered to provide fitness classes for the youth. ​ Garden Project: ​ The garden continues to flourish and provides fresh produce to refugee families on a rotating basis every Friday. New autumn crops were planted and the garden is now producing garlic, green peppers, lettuce, sweet potatoes. The garden also has a large pomegranate tree, which is bearing fruit. Azad continues to lead this project and has been teaching his son and other refugee men his “green thumb” techniques. This project is instrumental in incorporating the refugee men into community life, providing much needed and appreciated skills and a sense of pride in their work and contribution to the community. Partnership Updates: ​ Nazarene Church, Pastor Zaki Via the Nazarene Church partnership, American FRRME continues to support the Youth Empowerment and Trauma Healing Center which reopened in September. Adjustments to the operations of the Center have been made to ensure the safety of the church and refugee communities during COVID-19. Cooking classes now take place at homes with small numbers in attendance. Other classes continue (English language, IT, woodworking, sewing/knitting) with strict adherence to small class size attendance. Syrian Orthodox Church, Father Benjamin Relief efforts continue to reach the Iraqi refugee families American FRRME supports via the Orthodox Church. This support is provided in the form of food packages, medical assistance when possible, immigration support, and welfare home visits while closely mitigating risk exposure to COVID19. Father Benjamin presided over the funeral of Abu San (a refugee who sadly passed away a few weeks ago.) As a member of the Syrian Orthodox Church, Abu San, and his entire family were active members of the church community in Madaba and participants at the OTC. American FRRME had previously provided critical medical support to Abu San, but unfortunately, he passed away. Assemblies of God Church, Madaba, Pastor Yoo American FRRME continues to support the refugee community in Madaba with food coupons, transportation to church, youth group support, mask making, garden projects, support groups, and “empowerment” projects. Unfortunately, in October, the refugee community in Madaba had two deaths, both from kidney failure. American FRRME provided family support to both families to help during these difficult times and extended the organization’s condolences and prayers. The families appreciate all American FRRME did to help them attain fair and accurate medical treatment despite the many obstacles. Greek Catholic Church, Fuheis, Father Bolis All other support to the Greek Catholic Church was cut off. American FRRME is currently the only charity supporting the Greek Catholic church in Fuheis. ​ Mask Making Project: COVID-19 surged in Jordan this fall, and October saw a further increase in positive cases, as well as government restrictions. The ongoing mask-making project is much needed and appreciated. Masks are required by law to enter into any building, without which heavy fines are issued. The masks also enable the refugees to attend church, do their grocery shopping, and attend classes and so far have protected against the spread of the corona into the community in Madaba. In Hashem al Shamali, a poor area of Amman, the need for masks and education remains high. OTC “American Thanksgiving”: If lockdown allows, there is the possibility of hosting a small American Thanksgiving for the refugees to give them a taste of American culture. Field Notes from Helena By Alice Seeley Published On October 16, 2020 American FRRME- COVID-19 Relief Strategy Update: ​ American FRRME has continued to implement all government-imposed criteria necessary to safely reopen Olive Tree Center. This includes hand sanitizer being mounted on walls, regular cleaning, mask-wearing, regulation of class and center attendance, and social distancing implemented in all classes. Olive Tree Center as a Relief Hub During COVID-19 and Update: ​ Local churches remain open and the masks being produced at the Olive Tree Center are vital in order to enable refugees to go to church safely and in compliance with the government mandate. Support groups at the Olive Tree Center continue online but, have started making the shift back to in-person small groups, as restrictions in Jordan ease. Clothing distributions and support are still ongoing at the Olive Tree Center. English language (conversation & grammar) beginner, intermediate and advanced, music and art classes resumed and provide a much-needed respite from COVID-19 restricted daily life. Guitar classes for children commenced while being closely monitored and are held in small class sizes. Cooking and sewing classes are still ongoing at the Center also with reduced size classes and highly regulated COVID-19 prevention tactics in place. Workshops at Olive Tree Center: Upon the reopening of the Olive Tree Center on September 1st, the Olive Tree Center has continued to expand its offerings of workshops to benefit the mental health of the refugee community. There are future plans in place for the establishment of exercise classes on the roof of the Olive Tree Center that will enable the women to exercise in an environment that they feel comfortable in. Volunteer yoga instructors are ready to start in October after the two-week lockdown is lifted. In the beginning, this will be a reduced class size, for women only, then we will be offering a men’s only class. Garden Project: ​ The ‘Garden of Hope’ continues to provide fresh vegetables to supplement the refugees’ weekly food supply. Tomatoes, cucumbers, corn, chard, zucchini, and various herbs are the current staples provided weekly to rotating refugee families in the community. The garden continues to serve as a mental health initiative, providing a sense of accomplishment, exercise, and community spirit to all involved, particularly as a means to support the male refugees. Also, September marked the end of the growing season for certain vegetables, and newer seasonal crops are to be planted this October in their place. Expansion of ‘Garden of Hope’ at Other Partnership Churches: When the OTC officially reopened on September 1st, we were able to live stream traditional Iraqi cooking classes by refugees and host cooking classes to obtain donations. This gave the diplomat and ex-pat communities a “taste of Iraq” through delicious cooking and a means to donate. ​ Youth Activities: ​ Trauma healing workshops and increased counseling services in the current environment of COVID-19 continue to provide much needed responsive and adaptive support, which has not only fueled the refugee communities physically but is providing mental health support, along with empowerment initiatives. Azad, the head gardener, and Riveen, the lead on the fundraising appeal, along with Leka leading the mask making efforts, are just three of many examples of American FRRME providing “hope, help, and healing”. The need for this support remains great and all communities continue to be appreciative and have become more involved and excited as the efforts continue to grow and make a significant impact across the refugee communities. ​ Partnership Updates: ​ Nazarene Church; Pastor Zaki ​ American FRRME continues to provide food packages and supplies to the refugees who attend the Nazarene Church. We also send dire food packages and hygiene kits to Syrian refugees in Mafraq and to Jordanians in need. Syrian Orthodox Church; Father Benjamin Relief efforts continue to reach 583 families in the Syrian Orthodox Church, through the support of American FRRME. ​ Assemblies of God Church, Madaba; Pastor Yoo ​ In Madaba, 120 families attend the Full Gospel Church. These families are recipients of the support of American FRRME through food coupons, transportation to church services, garden projects, support groups, and empowerment projects. ​ Greek Catholic Church, Fuheis; Father Bolis ​ The Greek Catholic Church, in Fuheis, with aid from American FRRME, continues to support refugee families. There are currently 250 refugee families who receive food coupons from local grocery stores. This has been vital during Covid-19 when most people have been unable to work their “under the table” jobs that had previously helped them to buy food. Proposed Initiatives: ​ The Proposed Establishment of the General David E. Greer Scholarship Fund. In loving memory of General Greer’s commitment to service and education, a tribute to his legacy would be an annual scholarship that would enable dedicated, hardworking Iraqi refugee students to attend school. This scholarship would enable students who do not have the opportunity to study, access to education. This was very important to General Greer’s vision of helping the refugees that American FRRME supports to empower themselves and improve their lives through learning. After a discussion with American FRRME Executive Director, Susan Greer, an idea was proposed to provide trustees with “American FRRME” masks made by refugees for all board members at the annual December meeting in Washington, DC. Leka continues to lead the mask making initiative in Madaba. This operation has grown and now community members also take other items with sewing/stitching needs to Leka to mend. Having access to a sewing machine has enabled her to further support the community and her family as well as spearhead efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19. Possible creation of woodworking classes being held at the Olive Tree Center for continued involvement and the empowerment of refugee men. Updates From Helena Scott at The Olive Tree Center By Alice Seeley Published On September 3, 2020 Summer 2020 ​ Online support & learning/development platforms American FRRME continues to provide resume assistance, revision, and immigration assistance to refugees via email and phone. ​ Garden Project ​ This “garden of hope” was created at the Olive Tree Center by refugees, for refugees. Throughout June this Garden was maintained, further cultivated, and really prospered: cucumbers, corn, beans, watermelon, cantaloupe, and tomatoes are now abundant. This garden provides the community with a sense of purpose, exercise, and a sense of contributing to the community. Azad, the leader of the initiative, has really grown in his role as head gardener. He installed wire fencing to protect the garden from animals eating the vegetables. Mask Making Project & Creation of “Olive Oil” Fund https://youtu.be/EDWvoCVtIXM Iraqi refugee Leka started this mask-making initiative. This project has produced over 500 masks for the refugee community in efforts to prevent COVID-19. Masks are mandatory for all to attend church services and anything public which is why this project is a very significant help to the community. American FRRME has provided material to Leka to produce extra masks to be provided to the Amman diplomat community which has a big need for masks. This enables diplomats to support the refugee community with a donation. Olive Tree Center as a relief center during COVID-19 ​ The Olive Tree Center (OTC) continues to serve as a safe and compliant base for relief operations. While its doors were closed as a Center, the OTC never stopped serving the refugee community. With strict adherence to social distancing and mask and gloves and in full compliance with the government rules and regulations, food coupon and package distributions, family support, mask making and gardening have flourished at the Center. Limiting the actual body count and maintaining proper safety measures has enabled us to still get essential support to the refugees in Madaba and to make use of the center while providing services. ​ Churches were legally allowed to open on Sunday, June 7th, with strict adherence to government rules. The masks American FRRME provides are vital to enabling refugees to get to church. ​ American FRRME COVID RELIEF STRATEGY UPDATE ​ American FRRME successfully implemented the COVID relief plan despite the many government restrictions of movement, lockdowns, and curfew implementation. Borders between towns reopened and internal travel with cars is now allowed. Helena Scott is able to travel directly to all American FRRME partnerships and refugee communities. Wellness Checks were performed by American FRRME to the most at-risk refugees throughout all the communities American FRRME supports, as soon as travel was allowed and restrictions lifted. American FRRME has remained fully compliant with government rules and regulations, wearing a mask and gloves whenever directly distributing relief. ​ Partnership Updates ​ Nazarene Church – Pastor Zaki ​ American FRRME continues throughout COVID to provide food packages and supplies to the refugees who attend the Nazarene Church, along with much-needed food packages and hygiene kits to some Syrian refugees in Mafraq. ​ Syrian Orthodox Church – Father Benjamin ​ Relief efforts continued in June to reach the 583 families American FRRME supports via the Syrian Orthodox Church. Father Benjamin has not been able to be mobile due to recent surgery, so Helena Scott has been conducting home visits directly to families most in need. ​ Assemblies of God Church In Madaba – Pastor Yoo ​ FRRME-A/FRRME support of the refugee community in Madaba and the 120 families who attend the Full Gospel Church was unwavering, food coupons provided as well as OTC offerings. ​ Greek Catholic Church In Fuheis – Father Bolis ​ American FRRME continues to support the refugee families in Fuheis via the Greek Catholic Church. Now that the border is open and travel is allowed, providing relief and support has been much easier. ​ Proposed Initiatives ​ Expansion of “garden of hope” to Full Gospel Church. The Garden of Hope initiative at the OTC has really taken off. It has provided much-needed hope and growth, and will eventually provide food for the refugee community in Madaba. The Full Gospel Church has excess land where we could facilitate the expansion of these efforts. If American FRRME can fund the garden project at the Full Gospel Church we can expand the gardening efforts. ​ As American FRRME continues to make the shift from providing relief to creating more sustainable solutions, this gardening initiative perfectly reflects that shift–providing hope, help, and healing through gardening. ​ As soon as the OTC officially opens we can live stream traditional Iraqi cooking classes by refugees, to obtain donations from donors, host cooking classes, and give the diplomat and ex-pat community a “taste of Iraq” through delicious cooking. ​ Proposed “Open House” at OTC to launch reopening post-Corona ​ To be safely planned and coordinated once the OTC can safely and legally reopen. ​ Youth Project ​ Additional funding for a youth project would be much appreciated. Children have been stuck in tiny apartments with their entire families. The need to do something special for the youth is very present. ​ As Jordan continues the reopening process, pools and waterparks may safely reopen at some point this summer. The airport is still closed, but travel within Jordan is much more accessible. As an organization, we are remaining vigilant and adhering to all safety measures during distributions. Society as a whole is struggling as people are still out of work. The need for support remains great and all communities are appreciative of what we are able to provide. ​ Mental Health services are needed now more than ever, and as the OTC awaits reopening, American FRRME has the chance to continue to make a significant impact. Field Notes from Helena By Alice Seeley Published On March 3, 2020 American FRRME- COVID-19 Relief Strategy Update: ​ There has been an increase in COVID-19 cases due to a new strain of the virus being detected in Jordan. The quarantine period is no longer required for international travel as long as a negative PCR test is attained. Friday lockdowns were lifted, but a nighttime curfew remains in place. Gatherings of more than 20 are still banned and masks are still required in public places. Despite the restrictions and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, American FRRME continues to operate safely. JORDAN RELIEF WORK OVERVIEW ​ January was an extremely busy yet productive month for American FRRME’s relief efforts. Not only did American FRRME continue all relief distributions and welfare checks across the refugee communities, but also significantly enhanced the community engagement of the refugees themselves in the work. The content gathering for the Olive Tree Appeal utilized the refugees and gave them a platform to contribute further to the wider refugee community. A grant application was submitted to the U.S. embassy in Amman. The grant is focused on expanding and enhancing the existing offerings and impact of the Olive Tree Center to include woodworking and a mosaic workspace. OLIVE TREE CENTER UPDATES ​ The Olive Tree Center received a new piano donated by a donor which was received with great appreciation and enthusiasm! Daniel, the piano teacher is thrilled to have a real piano to teach students, and now even more students are able to learn and participate in piano lessons. The previously online “Hope Group” transitioned into a community outreach and support group. This group serves as the main volunteer support group at the Olive Tree Center and within the community. These young women engage with the Madaba communities by demonstrating Christian compassion through small acts of kindness to community members, poor Jordanians, Syrian Muslim refugees, Syrian Christian refugees, the elderly, sick, and handicapped. Helena Scott resumed teaching English conversation classes at the Olive Tree Center. Art classes taught by painter Mahmoud have started. He is a Muslim Jordanian artist, and he has been very involved in supporting the Olive Tree Center, and the Olive Tree Center appeal. He is the first Muslim teacher at the Olive Tree Center and reflects the social cohesion and integration efforts; he is now a favorite teacher amongst the Iraqi Christians Madaba and has been extremely well-received. Garden Project The garden at the Olive Tree Center continues to flourish and provide fresh produce to refugee families in Madaba. Winter has been tough, yet the garden continues to yield vegetables, most recently peppers. Part of the garden is now a flower garden! The flowers are being planted by Abu Levan, a 67-year-old Iraqi refugee man. He is an experienced farmer and gardener and is excited to cultivate a flower garden! Mask Making & Sewing Project The mask-making project continues to thrive and expand! American FRRME supplied Helena Scott with a vast array of fabric while in the U.S. This project expanded with the new fabric provided by American FRRME into the sewing of items in addition to the masks for the community. This fabric was used to sew baby blankets for newborn refugee babies, potholders, children’s masks, and aprons, among other items. With additional fabric, the women hope to sew pajamas for the refugee children as an Easter gift. PARTNERSHIP UPDATES Nazarene Church, Pastor Zaki American FRRME continues to support the Nazarene Church via the Youth Empowerment and Trauma healing Center. This center reopened and provides a wood workshop, English classes, sewing, cooking, and IT classes to the refugee community alone. The center currently only serves 100 families as numbers had to be restricted during COVID-19. The center is still providing art classes for the children and “therapeutic activities,” but currently does not have a counselor. Helena Scott is working to build a network of psychologists to support the Center at the Nazarene church, the Olive Tree Center in Madaba, and future Olive Tree Centers. Qualified counselors remain difficult to find in the country – there is an idea to establish online counseling opportunities with qualified counselors or social workers (Arabic speaking): stay tuned! Syrian Orthodox Church, Father Benjamin Relief efforts continue to support the Iraqi refugees in this community via food packages, medical assistance, rent, and immigration support. As well as regular home visits conducted, check-in on welfare, and need assessments, while closely mitigating exposure to COVID-19. Due to the spike in cases and Father Benjamin’s health risk, Helena Scott performed most of the home visits /welfare checks this month. The refugees American FRRME supports via the Syrian Orthodox Church remain some of the most at-risk/challenged. Positive news: “Sander” the man who was kidnapped and placed in the hole in the ground, immigrated to Australia with his 7 kids! Assemblies of God Church, Madaba, Pastor Yoo American FRRME continues to support the refugee community in Madaba with food coupons, transportation to church, youth group support, mask making, garden projects, support groups, and “empowerment” projects Pastor Yoo and Gloria provide much-needed support to the youth groups, and American FRRME supports these initiatives whenever possible, this month it was through the provision of buses and refreshments so that the youth could attend youth events at the church. When it is safe to do so we would like to support a youth field trip or activity, COVID-19 has been particularly hard on the youth. American FRRME supported the safe arrival of two refugee babies into the world. The families did not have funding to pay for the hospital fees without American FRRME support. They arrived safely and the mothers remain COVID-19 free. Greek Catholic Church, Fuheis, Father Bolis American FRRME continues to support the partnership at the Greek Catholic Church via the food coupon program and further development opportunities Thank you once again and may God bless you and your family. Faithfully, ​ ​ ​ Helena Scott, Jordan Country Director

American FRRME Chairman, Col. Max Wood joined American Sunrise with Ed Henry and Karyn Turk, on Real America’s Voice, to talk about the ongoing persecution of Iraqi Christians. ​ Watch here: