Lebanon (MNN) — Recovery persists in the U.S. as late January storms brought deep freezes and widespread ice accumulations across parts of the South that aren’t used to winter.
In the Middle East, Lebanon has also seen more winter precipitation than normal, making the needs in poor communities even more drastic.
“We’ve been watching the news coming out from the US, and boy, you guys have had some severe weather,” Heart for Lebanon’s Camille Melki says.
“The case in Lebanon is not as dramatic, but we’re talking about vulnerable communities – families living in makeshift homes and tent settlements with just a very thin tarp layer over their heads.”
(Photo courtesy of Heart for Lebanon)
Expanded outreach
Typically, Heart for Lebanon starts stockpiling supplies in the fall – blankets, mattresses, and winter clothing – for its six-month winter outreach. See the impact of its 2024 outreach here.
“This year, because of the more-than-normal severe weather, we have doubled the amount of blankets that we have given out,” Melki says.
“Heart for Lebanon has given out more than 6,000 blankets, and we continue to distribute even more, trying to reach 2,000 vulnerable families by the end of this month.”
The Gospel accompanies each delivery. “Everything we give is given freely, unconditionally. All we want is the opportunity to tell you we do that because of the love of Jesus Christ in us,” Melki says.
“We are here, driven by the compassionate heart of Jesus Christ, trying to see lives changed and communities transformed – helping lead people out of despair into hope in Christ and Christ alone.”
How you can help
Would you consider giving to help vulnerable refugees and Lebanese through Heart for Lebanon? Your one-time investment helps bring food, winterization items, and the Gospel to a desperate family.
“When you think about your challenges – shoveling snow, moving things around in cold weather – remember, there are people who don’t even have anything over their head to survive that winter,” Melki says.
“If you are compelled to give, give with the love of Jesus Christ, knowing that your contribution will not only touch a life that is in physical need, but also needs to hear the Gospel.”
Header and story images courtesy of Heart for Lebanon.
