Critical situation in Lebanon - Diakonia starts fundraiser

The situation in Lebanon is critical. After Israel’s ground invasion, over one million people in Lebanon have been forced to flee their homes. 

“People are terrified, there is a shortage of everything. Many of the displaced people didn't manage to bring anything before fleeing,” says Mireille Dika, Diakonia’s Country Director in Lebanon. 

Diakonia is fundraising to support those now suffering in Lebanon. Through our partner, the grassroot organization FEMALE, and their volunteers, we are reaching out to the most vulnerable, especially women and children.

“The needs are immense. There is a lack of medicine, hygiene products, milk for children, and much more. The situation is worsening by the hour, and the number of people needing shelter is rapidly increasing,” Mireille Dika adds.

At their centers in the capital Beirut and the coastal city of Tripoli, FEMALE is receiving people who have fled the fighting in southern Lebanon. They need food, medicine, and shelter – help to survive. FEMALE also assists those seeking refuge in places like schools.

“There is great concern that this crisis will last a long time. Those who have been forced to flee because their homes were bombed have lost everything. The need for psychological support, especially for children, is great. The children are very scared. They don’t understand what’s happening,” says Mireille Dika.

Blankets, mattresses, food, medicine, and hygiene products are being distributed, primarily to women and children. Each hygiene kit includes sanitary pads, soap, shampoo, toothbrush, wipes, hairbrush, cotton swabs, and a razor. It is estimated to cover a girl’s or woman’s basic needs for one month.

Diakonia is also helping to provide psychosocial support to children who have experienced trauma and been severely impacted by the war. Through the network of ACT Alliance, we are quickly on the ground with the needed assistance.

“What we are witnessing in Lebanon and the whole region is terrifying. In a very short time, life has turned into a nightmare for millions. We are making a strong effort to raise funds to support the suffering civilian population,” says Diakonia’s Secretary-General Mattias Brunander.

Unfortunately, we already know that this crisis will last a long time.

“Even if the war were to end today, the crisis would continue. Many people have lost their homes; they need somewhere to stay until they can find a new home,” says Mireille Dika.

And she emphasizes how important Diakonia’s fundraising is:

“Every penny, every small bit of help is important. And please, always remember, these people are not just numbers. Each person has a life, a story, a favorite color, a dream, a home.”