Long time knitting hobby becomes lifeline for Syrian family in Libya

A long-time hobby became a lifeline for a Syrian family in Libya struggling to survive the economic impact of COVID-19.

When 42 years old Fidaa and her family fled Syria to Tripoli, Libya eight years ago, they left everything behind. Her husband Hani was the main breadwinner, providing for Fidaa and their two daughters Ghazal and Mariam. 

He worked various manual jobs to make ends meet. But when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Hani found it hard to find work and his health started deteriorating. 

Fidaa stepped in, turning her long-time hobby of knitting into a business that she hopes can grow to provide even more financial security for her family.

“I make dresses for girls, baby blankets, socks, hats, hair clips, anything really to get some income,” Fidaa said. 

“Back in Syria, it wasn’t for survival, it was a hobby. I lived in a house we owned, and we had a comfortable life.”

“When she started to work, she filled a financial gap,” Fidaa’s husband Hani said. “If we needed a plate for the house, she’d sell a dress, and instead of one plate she’d buy three. She sells something else and buys a pot."

After 10 years of crisis, life is harder than ever for displaced Syrians. Millions have been forced to flee their homes since 2011, seeking safety as refugees in Lebanon, Turkey, Jordan, Libya and beyond, or are displaced within Syria.

With the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and increasing poverty, every day feels like an emergency for Syrians forced to flee.