As Lebanon navigates the impacts of the ongoing conflict for over a year now, recent escalations have only deepened the crisis. The lives of children and families across Lebanon grow increasingly vulnerable as the conflict has now claimed over 2,780 lives, injured more than 12,750 people and displaced over a million and a half Lebanese. Tragically, among those affected are the most innocent: at least 120 children have lost their lives and 890 others have been injured. However, more than a million Lebanese children are affected. Children in Lebanon are being killed, displaced, separated from their families and mentally traumatised due to the ongoing conflict.
In the face of this sadness, we received heartbreaking news close to home. A child in our care lost her biological mother during an airstrike on her hometown in the conflict zone. This loss has been incredibly difficult for her. We are by her side, providing the care and emotional support she needs to overcome this tragedy. Our team members and staff are understandably shaken by the constant bombardment and sounds of aircraft above heard clearly all over the country. For now, 25 families from the Bekaa region and 24 families from southern Lebanon including areas around Beirut have been relocated to ensure their safety. Other families might need to relocate soon. Unfortunately, no one feels safe anymore.
Observing a small light of hope and following directives from the Ministry of Education, children in alternative care have successfully resumed their schooling. Relocated children are now adapting to their new schools and friends smoothly thanks to the efforts of their caregivers, staff and new friends.
“I am saddened by everything happening in our country but at least I am happy to return to school and start the year! My thoughts are with all the children who are in shelters and will not be able to take the school bus anytime soon.”
As part of our Emergency Response, SOS Children’s Villages in Lebanon is not only committed to support and provide safety for children and families under our care in Alternative Care programmes and the Family Strengthening Programme but we are expanding our reach to support 835 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), including 442 children in three different shelters in Lebanon through multipurpose cash assistance, clothes distribution and by providing safe spaces for children and psychosocial support for children and their caregivers.
The youth in our care have also shown extreme interest to support the team on the ground with the activities. They are leading the preparation of boxes of warm clothes for the displaced families and participating in the distribution. For many, witnessing the hardships of people closely has increased their sense of compassion and social responsibility.
“Seeing the real struggles of people so closely instead of just hearing about them on the news, saddened my heart but strengthened my commitment to help those in need now”
The immense challenges and rising risks have only fuelled our commitment to the children and families we serve. SOS Children’s Villages in Lebanon will continue its mission to provide care, support and hope to those who need us most during these harsh times.