Lebanon is more than just a small country on the map—it’s a land of resilience and history, rich in spirit, cultural diversity, and the unwavering determination of its people. Despite the tragedies and crises it has endured, Lebanon has always remained vibrant.
But the latest war came like a flood, sweeping away everything—homes, schools, dreams, and even the most basic elements of a dignified life. Thousands of families were displaced, forced into a harsh reality with no shelter, no income, and no infrastructure to sustain them.
Yet the light in this country did not fade. Amid the devastation, voices emerged, saying: We are here. Steady steps were taken toward the people. At the heart of this scene stood HAND—committed, present, and ready to act.
HAND’s Response: A Lifeline in the Darkest Hour
From the earliest hours of the crisis, HAND launched a comprehensive emergency humanitarian response, working closely with local authorities and maintaining continuous coordination with partners and field organizations.
We mobilized swiftly and with adaptability, guided by a deep understanding of the context and a commitment to preserving human life and dignity. Our response was not just technical—it was a statement of compassion and solidarity.
In emergency education, we reconnected children with learning in safe, nurturing environments through alternative classrooms, tailored materials, and psychosocial support that addressed their trauma.
In child protection, we created safe spaces with recreational and therapeutic activities, while empowering caregivers with tools to support children in crisis.
In shelter, we rehabilitated damaged homes in Bekaa and Baalbek-Hermel, addressing urgent needs where families lived in dangerous or uninhabitable conditions, exposed to exploitation or eviction.
In WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), we ensured access to clean water, repaired sanitation systems, and ran awareness campaigns in the hardest-hit areas.
In cash assistance and essential needs, we provided direct financial support that enabled families to make decisions based on their own priorities—restoring a sense of control and autonomy.
From Urgency to Stability: A People-Centered Path Forward
Our mission was never about momentary relief—it was about paving a path toward sustainable recovery. As families began returning to their towns and villages, our programs evolved to reflect new realities and long-term needs.
This shift was rooted in constant field assessments, coordinated with local actors, especially in under-served regions like Bekaa and Baalbek-Hermel—areas facing chronic marginalization, fragile infrastructure, and widespread unemployment.
Many families were living in homes barely standing. Many had lost their livelihoods. Some had no choice but to reduce meals, take children out of school, or sell their remaining belongings just to survive.
With the steadfast support of our partners, we helped ease the weight of these realities and introduced models of response that upheld human agency and social justice.
Overcoming the Odds: Challenges and Milestones
The path was not without obstacles. We faced logistical hurdles, difficult terrain, and communities on edge. But with collaboration, local presence, and trust built over time, we made a real and lasting impact.
Communities did more than receive help—they participated, proposed solutions, and shaped the response with us. This spirit of partnership gave our efforts their deepest meaning.
Much Remains to Be Done… Solidarity Is Not Optional
Even with these gains, Lebanon remains caught in overlapping crises—economic collapse, disintegrating public services, and exhausted communities still yearning for justice.
The needs are staggering: children still out of school, families in crumbling shelters, and neighborhoods lacking food and clean water.
Our ability to respond was made possible by generous donors and committed partners. And today, we raise our voices again:
This is not the end of the journey. Solidarity is a responsibility.
Together, We Rebuild More Than Lives… We Restore Hope
In Lebanon, every act of care is a defiance of despair. Every humanitarian gesture is a promise that this country will not be forgotten.
With your continued support, HAND presses forward—flexible, determined, and grounded in one belief:
Every person deserves the chance to ris, reclaim their dignity, and dream again.
