Syria refugee crisis: how to donate

There are nearly 2 million refugees as a result of the conflict in Syria, described as the largest humanitarian crisis since the 1994 Rwanda genocide. As the situation escalates, aid agencies and NGOs are struggling to raise enough money to keep up with demand. Here is a roundup of the main appeals.

The UN and its humanitarian partners aim to raise at least $4.4bn (£2.9bn) this year to assist the refugees and host countries affected by the crisis – its largest appeal to date. You can donate through its Syria crisis page, via PayPal or credit or debit card, or make tax-free donations through UN national offices and associations.

The Disasters Emergency Committee has launched a Syria crisis appealthat has so far raised £16m, which has been given to partner organisations working across the region. DEC says that because of the nature of the crisis and the shortage of funds, the money is being spent quickly. The public can donate online, via PayPal, by phone +44 (0)370 60 60 900, or text DEC to 70000 to donate by mobile. UK donations are eligible for gift aid.

Other NGOs and agencies running appeals include Islamic Relief, which is fundraising for medical assistance, food parcels and basic supplies, such as blankets, for those living within and outside Syria.

Care is raising funds to support refugees in Jordan, Egypt and Lebanon with basic living costs. Donations can be sent online, by post (pdf), or by calling +44 (0)20 7091 6100.

Oxfam has launched a £35m appeal, one of its largest, for refugees in Jordan and Lebanon. Some of the money will be used to ensure access to safe water and sanitation in Jordan's Zaatari camp. It is also giving money to families to help them with safe housing. The public can donate online or by post, by calling +44 (0)300 200 1999 or over the counter at any Oxfam shop.

ActionAid is also raising funds to support work in the Zaatari camp, distributing vital supplies. Donations can be made online.

Médecins sans Frontières is appealing for help for essential medical supplies for its field hospitals in Syria. Donations can be made online or by calling +44 (0)800 408 3987.

The International Red Cross and the Red Crescent Movement are operating in Syria, providing water, food and other essential items. They support the evacuation of wounded people to hospitals and help to deal with fatalities. Donations can be made online or via PayPal.

Save the Children and World Vision are raising funds for children. More than half the refugees caught up in the crisis are under 18, according to estimates. Donate to Save the Children online, by post (pdf) or by calling +44 (0)800 8148 148. World Vision is taking online pledges.

Tearfund is collecting money to get essential supplies to refugees, including kitchen kits and bedding; Cafod is working through church partners to distribute aid and supplies to vulnerable people. Both are taking donations online.

The Danish Refugee Council is one of the largest organisations on the ground in and around Syria. The agency is taking donations on its website.

The World Food Programme is the largest humanitarian agency working inside Syria, and is also providing food assistance to refugees in neighbouring countries. Donate online, or via PayPal or iPay88.

The International Rescue Committee is providing medical care and emergency supplies to Syrian refugees, with a particular focus on supporting women and children. The organisation is taking donations through its website.

Unicef UK is appealing for funds to support refugee children in Syria and neighbouring countries. You can donate online and by calling +44 (0)800 316 5353. To donate £5 by mobile, text DONATE to 70099.