Initiatives in Times of Crisis

08 Feb 2025
How Organizations, Initiatives Supported Displaced Families During the War on Lebanon
By Bassem Jouni
The war on Lebanon reinforced a critical truth: overcoming crises is only possible through collective solidarity. This was evident in the numerous humanitarian initiatives that played a key role in supporting displaced families. What stood out was not only the efforts of established organizations but also the rise of grassroots movements and individual initiatives driven by a deep sense of social responsibility. Their flexibility and rapid response made a significant impact in addressing urgent needs.

One of the standout organizations during the war was Food Blessed, which quickly shifted its efforts to support displaced communities. Drawing from its extensive experience in crisis response, the organization adapted swiftly to logistical challenges, including bombardments, volunteer shortages due to mobility restrictions, and financial constraints. Despite these obstacles, Food Blessed distributed meals to over 10,000 displaced individuals. Originally founded in 2012 to combat food waste, the organization expanded its operations during the war to provide clothing for 3,000 people, along with medical supplies, children’s toys, and bedding. It focused on vulnerable groups residing in temporary shelters in Ain el-Mreisseh and Ramlet el-Bayda, as well as harder-to-reach areas where other aid organizations struggled to operate.

On the level of individual initiatives, the Mubadara (المبادرة) emerged as a grassroots response to the escalating crisis. Launched by a group of volunteers, including social media influencers Ghina Sandid and Sara Fawaz, it harnessed digital platforms to rally public support. The initiative’s commitment to full transparency, through documented aid distribution efforts, strengthened donor trust and helped secure hundreds of thousands of dollars in contributions.

However, the initiative faced considerable challenges, particularly in reaching displaced families scattered across remote locations and in securing adequate storage for donations. A team member emphasized the crucial role played by Wakilni, which facilitated efficient aid delivery to a vast number of beneficiaries. Additionally, the establishment of a dedicated website helped streamline coordination among various relief initiatives, addressing a common challenge in crisis response: the lack of a centralized framework.

By the time of the ceasefile, Mubadara had extended support to over 6,000 families, ensuring access to food, fuel, and essential medical supplies for an additional three weeks. The response from displaced families upon returning home was heartwarming; many reached out to express gratitude, inviting volunteers to visit their homes in a gesture of appreciation. These interactions reinforced the lasting impact of community-driven relief efforts.

The war underscored the resilience of Lebanese society in the face of adversity. Despite resource limitations and logistical hurdles, grassroots movements and civil society organizations stepped in where official support was lacking. Their ability to mobilize quickly, operate transparently, and collaborate effectively proved that community-driven solutions remain one of the most powerful tools in crisis response. Once again, Lebanon demonstrated that its greatest strength lies in the unity and determination of its people.
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