ANERA responds to crisis in Lebanon

Fighting in the Nahr al-Bared camp in northern Lebanon has displaced thousands of Palestinian refugees over the past week. Approximately 20,000 people have fled horrific scenes of conflict and devastation, including over 500 infants and preschoolers, and 100 elderly with chronic illnesses. Many left home without clothing, food, medication and other necessities, and have taken sanctuary in the camps of Baddawi, Chatila and Bourj el Barajneh.

People are in great need and ANERA is responding to the emergency.

On May 30, we routed a container of medical supplies through AmeriCares to our local Lebanese partner, the Health Care Society, to help displaced refugees. With the assistance of the Society and non-governmental organizations such as the Palestine Red Crescent Society, we distributed pain relief medications, hand sanitizers, surgical implements such as syringes, surgical sponges and examination gloves, wheelchairs, and first aid cream, and medicine to treat hypertension. Most of the medical relief was directed to the Safad Hospital and the Health Center in the Baddawi Camp. In addition, some aid went to clinics maintained by Popular Aid for Relief and Development.

A second shipment of medical supplies, valued at $1.3 million, will be sent this week. At the same time, ANERA met with representatives from the Najdeh Association and the Women Humanitarian Organization to determine refugees' more specific needs. We learned that such items as hygiene kits, underwear, diapers, baby shampoo, mattresses, pillow cases and cleaning detergent are in critical need.

ANERA will continue to distribute aid to those in need through our Lebanon-based partners.