Lebanon Relief Fund

Dear world,

Lebanon is facing one of the worst crises in the world. People are being deprived of their basic essential needs such as electricity, fuel, medicine and the ability to buy bread. Electricity cuts last up to 23 hours a day, leaving elderly people especially vulnerable. The mass electricity cuts are also affecting hospitals, threatening people on respirators and life saving machines.

On August 4, 2020 the people of Lebanon faced a port explosion that destroyed a large portion of the capital, and killed more than 200 people. Over a year later, there is still no accountability. Much of the capital is still in rubble, with half destroyed buildings left in their place. People are forced to pay out of their pockets to fix their homes, and due to the economic crisis some couldn’t afford to finish the constructions.

With the economic free fall in the country, basic needs are not affordable in Lebanon anymore. The Lebanese Lira has lost 90% of its value in the past year. People are struggling to afford their basic needs such as bread, milk, baby formula, feminine products, hygiene products like toothpaste and much more. Lines at gas stations to get fuel extend hours long. People parking their cars overnight in hopes to fill up any amount of fuel in the morning has become the new reality. Even generators are running out of gas, leaving those who can actually afford to pay for generators without electricity as well.

On top of this there is no access to mental health care and medicine which has led to rising cases of insomnia, depression and anxiety. With every day that passes the suffering of the people of Lebanon continues to increase, triggering civil unrest in the country between civilians and multiple political parties. My beloved Lebanon is suffering, this is only a glimpse into the pain people are going through right now.

My name is Saraa El-Assir, I’m a 24 year old Lebanese-American living in the United States. I spent this past summer in Lebanon and witnessed the suffering of the people with my own eyes. Since I came back to the U.S. I felt an urgent need to help which is why I decided to start this fundraiser, I feel like it is my responsibility.

The goal of this fundraiser is to buy medicine, baby formula, feminine products and hygiene articles and distribute them in Lebanon to the families in need. I would really appreciate if you could support me on this mission. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Thank you very much.