Here's What Happening in Lebanon Right Now and How You Can Help

Morgan Noll
·5 min read

Here's What Happening in Lebanon Right Now and How You Can Help

The country is in dire need of aid following Beirut explosions amid multiple existing crises.

A massive pair of explosions in the Lebanese capital of Beirut on Tuesday left thousands of people injured and at least 135 dead, CNN reports. As the search and rescue efforts continue, the death toll is expected to rise. Investigators are still working to figure out what caused the devastating blast, and the timing couldn't be worse. The explosions come as Lebanon is already fighting the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic alongside economic collapse, famine, and political unrest. (Lebanese people have been continuously protesting against government corruption since October.)

According to the Human Rights Watch, Lebanon's government has been inadequately responding to existing crises, worsening the risks for those most in need and making it even more difficult to provide aid. Several hospitals were destroyed in the blast, CBS News reports. The hospitals left standing are already overwhelmed due to coronavirus, and some are having to turn patients away.

By now, many people have seen the deeply disturbing videos of the explosions in Beirut and are wondering what to do next.

For starters, spread the word about what's happening in Lebanon through social media, with informational posts that share resources and background on the crisis. Reference The Slow Factory's post below to better understand the impact of the issue in Lebanon today.

For those in positions to donate, below is a list of organizations that can use funds to provide aid to Lebanese people directly affected by ongoing crises and the recent disaster.

View this post on Instagram

On August 4, 2020 two massive explosions erupted in the port of Beirut, Lebanon, destroying homes, businesses, and full city blocks and injuring thousands. So far, 300,000 people are now homeless, 5,000 have been injured and 135 people have died. As more people are being reported missing and buildings keep collapsing, these numbers will likely keep increasing. A state of emergency has been declared and the army will be taking over the city for two weeks. Beyond loss of life and massive wreckage to the city, this explosion has severe consequences for the livelihood of the entire country. Up to 80 percent of the country's food needs are imported in any given year while the port of Beirut handles 60% of all Lebanon imports. With the destruction of the port, access to food, basic necessities, and medical supplies is now close to none. While we need to rebuild Beirut, the explosions are just one example of the mismanagement and negligence of the Lebanese government. Everyone must play a part by holding the Lebanese government accountable, sharing accurate information, donating wherever you can and demanding your country’s officials put international pressure to investigate this disaster. Swipe for more information on how to help >> Follow & support the below >> Domestic workers aid @egnalegna @alinedeloscampos Food relief aid @lebfoodbank @ahlafawda @atfalouna.leb @kafe_be_kafak @foodblessed General relief aid @lebaneseredcross @offre.joie @beitelbaraka @impact.lebanon @baytna_baytak @daleelthawra @lebanonneeds @rebuild_beirut #lebanon #beirut #beirutlebanon

A post shared by Slow Factory 🌍 (@theslowfactory) on Aug 5, 2020 at 3:24pm PDT

Where to Donate to Help People in Lebanon:

Lebanese Red Cross

The Lebanese Red Cross is the country's main provider of ambulances. Donate to help provide emergency medical services here.

Impact Lebanon

The nonprofit organization is partnering with nongovernmental organizations to collect money for disaster relief for the Beirut explosions. Donate to the fundraising page here.

Nusaned

The humanitarian, community-based, and volunteer organization has created a Beirut Explosion Emergency Response plan, including efforts to distribute food and hygiene kits, clean up, provide shelter and medical supplies, donate blood, and more. Donate to the organization here.

Beit el Baraka

Beit el Baraka is a nonprofit organization based in Beirut that works to provide assistance to Lebanese families struggling with the cost of living. Since the explosion, the group has committed to help fix family homes that were damaged. Donate to help these efforts here.

Humanity & Inclusion

Humanity & Inclusion works closely with those with disabilities, serious conflict-related injuries, chronic illnesses, and the elderly. The organization launched a campaign specifically to provide rehabilitation support to victims of the explosion, which you can donate to here.

Donner Sang Compter

Donner Sang Compter is a blood donation organization that is now focusing on collecting and providing blood to hospitals in Beirut. Donate here.

Islamic Relief Lebanon Emergency Appeal

Islamic Relief, a charity that offers international aid and development, created the Lebanon Emergency Appeal to respond to the explosions and provide immediate assistance. Efforts include providing food, water, other basic supplies, and financial assistance to those in need as well as helping to clear the streets of debris. Donate here.

Lebanese Food Bank

The Lebanese Food Bank is based in Beirut and is working to provide food, provisions, and access to safe spaces to those in need. Donate here.

Save the Children

Save the Children offers a wide range of services to young people across Lebanon and is working to provide assistance to children and families as well as physical and emotional protection to those affected by the disaster. Donate here.

Matbakh el Balad

Matbakh el Balad provides food boxes containing essential food items for five-person families. Donate here.

Egna Legna

Egna Legna is an association of Ethiopian Migrant Domestic Workers based in Lebanon supporting migrant women affected by the Beirut blast. Sign up here for ways to support their work.