What is currently happening in Lebanon?
Lebanon is once again reeling from a catastrophe and our field office has already deployed first responders to assist the authorities.
Political inaction and the devaluation of the Lira, Lebanon's official currency, have contributed to a growing wave of anger, frustration and desperation. The crisis, combined with the coronavirus lockdown, has put at least half of the Lebanese population under the poverty line. Earlier this year, the World Bank projected that at least 50% of the country would become poor -- up from nearly 30% last October.
Lebanon declared a state of emergency in an attempt to control the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19). A national lockdown was implemented, making refugee and marginalised families even more vulnerable.
Nearly every day, the snowball effect of Lebanon's economic meltdown brings new developments. Prices have surged -- the situation is verging on hyper-inflation -- and fuel shortages have plunged the country into darkness, with power outages lasting almost 24 hours. Several individuals took their own lives, with local media reports suggesting that the suicides were linked to economic hardship caused by the crisis.
What we are doing in Lebanon?
All donations made are allocated to projects in infrastructure, food, medical, hygiene and education in order to help the people of Lebanon get back on their feet.
In addition, we have a mobile clinic that has been deployed in various locations attending to people who need urgent medical attention. The Mobile Clinic is a specialised vehicle equipped with basic medical devices, loaded with medicines and multiple areas for examinations and tests that reach those in need.
We also support the distribution of medicine to vulnerable families as well as emergency cases which include urgent surgeries and oxygen respirators for COVID-19 patients.
We have deployed personnel and volunteers to assist with emergency food parcels as well as distributing hygiene packs which include masks, sanitisers, soaps, and other material.
What can you do?
We need your help today.
Although AusRelief is focusing its relief efforts in many parts across Lebanon, our attention is now directed towards the casualties of this horrific blast.
