Lebanon (MNN) — Approximately one million people are on the move in Lebanon, where Israel began ground operations earlier this week.
At least 700 schools have been turned into shelters for people fleeing. Others take refuge in their cars on the streets at night when airstrikes happen.
Heart for Lebanon added 1,500 families to its care operations when the conflict began three weeks ago. “These are vulnerable Lebanese families that woke up one day and had nothing prepared for a crisis like this,” Heart for Lebanon’s May-Lee Melki says.
“This also encompasses some refugee families who are now twice and thrice displaced, whether Kurdish or Syrian.”
Heart for Lebanon expands support
Melki says Heart for Lebanon is increasing its focus on two critical areas. One is the ministry’s support for local churches throughout the country. Heart for Lebanon partners with congregations to reach as many people as possible.
“We are increasing our support to local churches, whether it is in the form of humanitarian aid or food packages – whatever they need,” Melki says.
(Photo courtesy Heart for Lebanon)
A second focus is the ministry’s program for young women ages 13 to 21. “They’re always the most tender demographic that gets hit by crises like this,” Melki explains.
“Our team is checking in with the girls we support, making sure they are safe and have everything they need through this crisis.”
Crises overlap
Lebanon isn’t just facing one or two crises, but many at once. Airstrikes have caused widespread destruction, including civilian casualties and damage to homes and infrastructure. There are also rising fears that the conflict could drag on or turn into a longer-term occupation, keeping families in limbo.
Finally, because Lebanon is part of a wider regional struggle involving Iran and its allies, the country has little control over what happens next.
Heart for Lebanon exists for times like these. You can help believers make Christ’s love tangible here.
“Please pray for our ability to show the Gospel in action,” Melki requests.
“This is not something that we are wired, as humans, to respond to, but it is yet another opportunity for the Kingdom to expand and for the hope of Christ to be front and center.”
Header and story images courtesy of Heart for Lebanon.
