On August 4, 2020, there was a powerful explosion at the port of Beirut. The massive fireball killed more than 200 and injured about 6,000 people, causing $12 billion in property damage and stealing the homes of an estimated 300,000 people.

 

The explosion was linked to ~2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate that had been confiscated by the Lebanese government from an abandoned ship and stored in the port without proper safety measures for 6 years. It was felt as far away as Turkey, Syria, Israel, and parts of Europe, and it was heard more than 160 miles away in Cyprus. It is regarded as among the most powerful, non-nuclear explosions in history!

 

Lebanon’s economy was already in deep crisis as the national currency (Lira) lost 80% of its value; the high inflation has left almost everyone in poverty. At the same time, the COVID-19 pandemic is at its peak, and hospitals (some already short of medical supplies and unable to pay staff due to a financial crisis) are filled with patients.

The physical and emotional needs are overwhelming. Our teams on the ground are working with churches, families, and individuals to put people back on their feet:

• Food packages for affected families
• Help with medical supplies and prescriptions
• Sanitary hygiene supplies
• Financial assistance to replace shattered doors, broken windows, and homes
• Aid to restore churches and schools

Help us help them — Donate now.