Sophia Bush visits Syrian refugees in Jordan

Actress Sophia Bush visited Jordan on Monday (07Apr14) to see the living conditions of Syrian refugees.

The former One Tree Hill star met with survivors who have fled Syria since the civil war began in 2011, and she listened to their stories and played games with some of the children.

Bush wrote about her experiences in the town of Mafraq, which is close to the Syrian border, to raise awareness of the conditions there and to encourage the public to make an effort to help the refugees.

On Tuesday (08Apr14), the actress posted a picture to her Instagram.com page showing her wearing traditional dress while having a hot drink with refugees.

She writes in a caption, "Today was hard on the heart. We spent the afternoon in town of Mafraq, Jordan. The name of the town comes from the Arabic word for 'split'. And it indeed feels like a fractured place. The city is swelling with refugees who have fled Syria, now having fled violence in the camps. These people are weary and exhausted. Fearful. All they want is to go home, but their homes are gone. They told us, 'We are only alive because there is no death here'. They are existing. They do not feel like they are living. And yet still they were so welcoming."

Bush goes on to urge fans to support charities which help Syrian refugees.

She concludes, "I encourage you. Do not turn a blind eye. Their story is our story. Bear witness. Listen thoughtfully. And learn lessons that will make you more determined to use your money, and most importantly your voices, for good... The light has to win here. It must."