Following nearly two weeks of escalating hostilities in Lebanon, airstrikes have reportedly killed or injured thousands of civilians, including women and children, as well as health and aid workers. The number of displaced people surpasses one million, with tens of thousands reportedly sheltering in overcrowded shelters, schools, or makeshift sites.
To prevent further loss of life, suffering and displacement, the IRC is advocating for all parties in the region to heed calls for an immediate ceasefire. We are also ramping up programming to help address the most critical needs of families most affected, such as:
-Cash assistance for protection or survival. For housing, food, or essential services, small sums of cash assistance can reduce reliance on shelters. Flexible cash support empowers people to prioritize and meet quickly their highest needs, and enhances their safety in a rapidly evolving crisis.
-Essential food support in safe spaces. We conduct or support programs that allow families to gather and share meals, promoting emotional support and community connections during times of crisis. By addressing food insecurity in a social setting, we can enhance belonging and security.
Our response in Lebanon is backed by 90 years of emergency response expertise and deep experience working in the Middle East and North Africa region across Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Yemen, Libya, and Gaza, which helped 6.3 million people last year. In more than 40 countries around the world, the IRC carries out high-impact, cost-effective solutions that uplift people affected by crisis.
Thank you for your generosity. Your gift allows us to deliver comprehensive help to people affected by humanitarian crises around the world. This gift will be used where and when most needed.
