New York - Over the past several days in Lebanon, we have seen a rapid and devastating increase in violence and a worsening humanitarian crisis. Communities in southern Lebanon have experienced violence and displacement for nearly a year, yet this dramatic increase in airstrikes has brought a new level of chaos, fear, and destruction. In the past 5 days alone, 90,000 people have been forced to flee their homes. Early estimates indicate that up to half a million people could be displaced.

There is confusion and fear as countless families seek refuge in safer areas, unsure where to go. Schools have been repurposed to serve as temporary shelters, but the number of people seeking refuge is growing by the minute, resulting in overcrowding and a lack of enough food, beds, and supplies. Years of weak health, economic and educational infrastructure in the country mean this is a multi-layered crisis that people – especially vulnerable communities – are not equipped to handle without support.

Your support is critical to help displaced families in need. Your support of $25.00 or more right now can ensure their basic needs such as food, shelter, and hygiene are met.

Anera is actively responding to the needs of displaced individuals. We have already distributed bedding, hot meals, essential medications, emergency medical supplies, winterization kits, and hygiene kits to families seeking refuge. Our response is possible thanks to the many generous members of the Anera community. But there is still so much more we need to do in the coming days. Here’s how you can make an immediate impact:

• $30 can provide one bedding kit for a displaced person which includes a mattress, blanket, and pillow
• $60 can provide 20 hot meals cooked in a communal kitchen to provide nourishment and comfort
• $130 can provide winterization kits for a family of 4 including sweaters, jackets, underwear, socks, and pajamas to keep them warm in the approaching colder temperatures of the northern mountain regions where many have fled
• $240 can provide hygiene kits with essential materials for 30 people including soap, bleach, antibacterial detergent, dishwashing liquid, laundry detergent, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, menstrual hygiene supplies, and garbage bags

The situation is challenging and many of Anera’s own staff have been displaced. But our strong foundation built on past emergency responses, coordination with other agencies and vendors, and deep connections to the communities we serve allow us to respond immediately and effectively. Amidst the uncertainty of the coming days, we are confident the humanitarian needs will continue to grow. We are also confident that with your support, we can provide the essential resources that families need to survive this crisis.
 

Please stand with us, as our work is only possible through your support. 

Sincerely,