Report from BHW Lebanon Partnership Facilitator

Key person: Izdihar Kasis 

BHW Facilitators: Gordon Stewart with Kevin Honore

Currently Gordon is based in Jordan and has tried to visit TFF several times. However, the current situation in the Middle East has prevented this. As soon as there is relative peace in the area either Gordon and/or Kevin will try again to get there. 

Recent Events

Current Situation

The danger of a full-scale war in Lebanon is growing by the day. Many families who could leave have already done so, leaving behind those preparing for tough times ahead. Izdihar writes, “We urgently seek God’s intervention to remove the threat of war, especially in areas around the Together for the Family oasis near potential conflict zones such as Baalbek and the Bekaa, which have already experienced numerous attacks.”

Meanwhile, the worsening economic and living conditions compel them to continue providing daily meals for children and offering food baskets to families. A concerning analysis suggests that within a decade they may face a generation plagued by psychological and health issues, along with a shortage of educated individuals due to ongoing emigration.

Activities

Since the beginning of 2024 they have commenced working with 25 new babies, ensuring they receive all essential items required for their care. This includes vitamins, diapers, clothing, and formula milk, to support mothers in nurturing their babies. 

TFF distributed heating fuel (mazut) for almost 200 families throughout the winter. Also, they consistently distributed food parcels for the same 200 families monthly. It is a struggle to find the food monthly and someone has to do a lot of work and go to many places to find the foodstuffs.

In February 2024 there was a serious scabies outbreak. Izdihar wrote, “Together for the Family centre has recently experienced an outbreak of scabies and jaundice, originating from newly arrived families who were unaware of their conditions. Their low income and limited access to clean water and soap have hindered their ability to manage the outbreak. Scabies is highly contagious and can spread rapidly, posing a significant risk to the entire Syrian refugee camp population. Immediate action is needed to prevent further spread of the scabies outbreak in the refugee camps. Your assistance in providing the necessary medication and support will greatly contribute to the health and well-being of the affected individuals and the entire refugee population.” They mobilized their team and donors to raise money and deliver help. BHW contributed US$500 towards this intervention. 

As is their tradition every year, TFF hosted an Iftar for Ramadan, inviting all staff, volunteers, and students to join in the celebration. However, this year held an extra significance as it coincided with the Easter celebration. It presented a perfect opportunity for members of both religions to come together and enjoy both festivities in the same dinner. It was a wonderful time of socializing and inter-religious celebration. And its title was “Was Jesus actually risen?” 

On the 24th of May 2024, a fire broke out in the TFF Centre. Izdihar writes, “A large fire broke out in the centre of the Together for Family Association.  We praise God that no one was harmed. We greatly thank the fire fighter heroes who carried out their duty in a short time.  They have all my love and appreciation.”

Personal Stories

Hoda Mohammad al Yehya came into contact with the TFF team through her baby. Her journey has been profoundly impacted by the Syrian crisis, leading to mental health struggles including obsessive-compulsive disorder, psychiatric disturbances, and panic attacks. Despite initial challenges in finding effective treatment, she eventually found stability through medication prescribed by a doctor. However, she continues to face societal stigma and struggles with obesity caused by medication, as well as bullying related to her body shape.

Enrolling in the nursing course offered by TFF, has provided Hoda with a positive distraction and a sense of purpose. By immersing herself in learning and acquiring valuable medical knowledge, she aims to improve her situation and secure opportunities for employment. 

Despite facing disapproval from her partner's family due to her mental health struggles and physical appearance, with the support of her own family and ongoing treatment, Hoda remains hopeful for a brighter future. She has met with Izdihar several times and every time comes crying and thanking her for everything they are doing to help her.  

Current Issues and Challenges

The ongoing instability in the region is causing more issues and creating more poverty in the country. 

The economy continues to struggle, and it is hard to find what they need to adequately care for the mothers and their children.

There is a lot of fear amongst the refugee people they work with and the Christians who are afraid of what is happening.

Prayer and Praise Points 

1) That God would lift His hand over Lebanon and halt the war, ushering in peace throughout the region.
2) That TFF would continue to be a lighthouse and a safe haven for people to encounter God.
3) That they will have the opportunity to assist new individuals and effect change in their society and the upcoming generation, fostering emotional, spiritual, and intellectual growth.
4) That the mothers of the children would be open to hearing the Good News as the team cares for them.
5) Thanks for safety when the fire came and that the fire fighters were able to get there quickly and limit the damage. 

Comments

These are wonderful partners and serving some of the poorest people on earth. We should stay engaged. We should also prioritise getting there as soon as possible.