“I have worked as a humanitarian for 10 years, but this is the first time I am supporting the displaced people of my land” says Youssef Jomaa, a lebanese staff member who has worked for Relief International for almost four years.
“Today I am working with colleagues, siblings and friends all from Beqaa, South, Beirut, and North. It is very significant for me.”
Since the escalation of the Middle East crisis in Lebanon on Monday 23 September, more than 1,000 people in the country have tragically been killed and over 3,000 injured.
More than 600,000 people are displaced from their homes, with no idea when they will return and more than 170,000 are living in overcrowded collective shelters.
As air strikes continue, communities are greatly distressed and the need for basic supplies is huge. Relief International’s local staff members are on the ground responding to this crisis.
“We are functioning on two hours of sleep every day. We are constantly on alert, never knowing where the next strike will take place,” says Youssef.
“Every time you try to sleep, an air strike comes and panic hits. On Friday, the Syrian-Lebanese border was hit near to my home and Relief International’s office in Beqaa. The atmosphere is hectic.
“Displaced people are devastated and frustrated. They tell me they have worked hard to establish their lives – their homes, their work and their children’s education. Now they have to start all over again."
“In Beqaa we have 18-20 schools which are full of displaced people. There are 70-80 families in each shelter and Relief International is supporting approximately 2,000 people.
“The schools were of course not equipped to house people so we are providing essential items like mattresses, pillows, medical and hygiene kits, as well as kitchen supplies, cleaning tools, carpets and fuel.
“This week, we will start addressing the psychological impact of the violence, providing trauma support for people affected by the strikes. We will also be organizing educational activities for displaced children who are living in shelters and missing out on school.
“The ongoing violence is causing harm to a lot of innocent people, of course including children. We as Lebanese people have endured so much throughout our history. Whilst our cities may bear scars and our hearts feel heavy, our spirit remains unbreakable. Whilst resources are very limited, we are trying as hard as possible to stand and support each other.
“For every displaced family, for every child seeking comfort, and for every person who carries the weight of this war—we will not give up.
“Our resilience is not just survival; it is the promise of a better tomorrow.”
While staff like Youssef are working around the clock to support the people of Lebanon, additional resources are badly needed.
More funding is desperately required to support primary health care centres, to restock medical supplies, and to support newly displaced communities.
Donate to Relief International today so we can continue providing critical support in Lebanon.
Together, we can make a difference.
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