The Osprey Relief Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Osprey Global Solutions, both located in Wilmington, is currently in northern Iraq conducting an assessment and coordination to provide emergency medical relief to displaced Christians. 

The team has met with Archbishop Barshar Warda in Erbil, United Nations representatives, other non-profits, and key government officials of Kurdistan to understand the current crisis and identify the areas of greatest need, the types of emergency supplies needed, and how to secure the reception and distribution of donated goods from the United States. These contacts have shared horrific stories of crimes, destruction and abuse of women and children by ISIS ( Islamic State Iraq Syria) terrorists. Displaced populations not only bear physical injuries from the conflict, but most are severely traumatized. 

There are an estimated 250,000 Christians who have relocated from their homelands to sanctuaries in Kurdistan with little more than their shirts on their backs. Emergency aide is arriving from the United Nations, World Health Organization and other international relief organizations – but it is a slow process, and barely meets the needs of these persecuted populations. The Kurdish people are providing all the support that they can. 

We believe that the United States should do more to support the persecuted Christians, and have started a campaign to provide much needed support. Our focus area is medical aide because it is critical, and we can achieve substantial effects with limited bulk and weight on air transport. Air movement will be achieved by using space available on military airlift and the donation of "angel" commercial flights. 

Our partners in Italy are contributing to this effort with close coordination with the Osprey Relief Foundation. Together, and with help from the private sector, we plan to make a difference in this humanitarian crisis.

Dave Grange is the CEO of Osprey Global Solutions, a global consulting company specializing in security, medical, financial forensics, construction and philanthropic services through the Osprey Relief Foundation. Grange also is the CEO of Osprey Armament, which develops specialized weapons and conducts beginner to advanced training at the Osprey Training Center in Council, North Carolina.