Five Families in Beirut
Every time I return to Lebanon, I'm overwhelmed by joy and nostalgia. As the plane levels off for its final approach towards the runway, the turquoise waters of the choppy Meditteranean glimmer below, the rugged coastline reveals itself as we descend, and those epic mountains, generously blanketed in evergreen forests, loom in the distance. I'm home.
Every American immigrant knows that feeling of returning to their place of birth, to the embrace of family and old friends, and to all those memories that fade in time but never completely disappear, not unlike old black and white photographs of family and friends past.
Even when I'm back in the US, Lebanon is not far away. On August 4th, 2020, I was in my office in Virginia when I heard the news of a massive explosion at the Port of Beirut. As I watched the horrifying footage on social media, my mind raced to Lebanon.
Who did I know that lives near the port?
How could such a thing happen?
How could Beirut, a jewel of a city, and its life-loving people recover from something like this?
I spent the next several days making frantic calls, checking in on relatives and friends. I thankfully accounted for the people in my circle. But given the devastation and loss of life, I was filled with dread and despair.
How will Lebanon ever be the same?
When I founded Empower Lebanon in mid-2020, I never imagined that we would be responding to such a catastrophic event out of the gate! But that's where we were. It was time to act.
Through our local network, I connected with the Lebanon Reforestation Initiative, a widely respected environmental NGO that pivoted some of its organizational focus to support the massive response effort. Combining forces, we developed a plan to repair the homes of five families affected by the blast.
Current COVID-19 restrictions in Lebanon have added a layer of complexity, causing some delays. Our work continues to move forward, however. We have selected the receiving families, procured the renovation materials, and conducted initial home assessments. In the coming weeks, especially after the lockdowns are lifted, I will update you on our progress. You can also follow our Facebook page.
Indeed, the situation in Lebanon is dire right now. But this is why Empower Lebanon was born, to rise to the occasion and meet the challenges, even when they are enormous. The darkness, after all, cannot hide the light.
Please join our effort in restoring the lives and dignity of these five families by donating today. Your generosity will make a direct impact.
(photo is courtesy of Lebanon Reforestation Initiative, providing support to families impacted by the blast)