Syria Marks One Year Since Devastating Earthquake, Reflects on Orphaned Children's Resilience

As the anniversary of the tragic event approaches, orphaned children and their new families navigate the challenges of loss and adaptation.

A year after a massive earthquake struck Syria and Turkey, killing over 59,000, orphaned children are adjusting to life with extended family or in foster homes.
Baby Aya, the sole survivor of her immediate family, symbolizes hope amidst tragedy, living with her aunt's family after being rescued still attached to her deceased mother.
UNICEF reports 542 children were found 'unaccompanied and separated' post-quake, with efforts to reunite them with family or provide alternative care ongoing.
Children like Yasmine Shahoud and Hanaa Shreif share stories of survival and recovery, despite the physical and emotional scars left by the earthquake.
Community efforts focus on providing long-term guardianship rather than legal adoption, with many children finding new homes with vetted foster families.