Beirut Blast Relief | Berrad El Hay

On August 4th, 2020, a catastrophic explosion devastated Beirut, exacerbating an already severe economic crisis amidst a global pandemic. In response, Berrad El Hay quickly implemented a disaster relief plan in collaboration with the Lebanese University, Faculty of Public Health Task Force to provide immediate aid to the affected community.

In order to support our community in the wake of the blast, we expanded our efforts to address urgent needs and support long-term urgent recovery.

As one united community we came together to create a path towards resilience and growth.

~Berrad El Hay Team

Our Response

In the face of this disaster, Berrad El Hay expanded its efforts to meet the urgent needs of those impacted. We focused on providing essential services such as:

Community Kitchen (Matbakh El hay)

Following the Beirut Blast, many families were left without functional homes or access to basic services like kitchens. In response, we established a community kitchen at St. John Parish to meet the urgent need for hot meals and support community fridges. Volunteers from diverse backgrounds came together, using this facility as a hub for meal preparation and distribution. More than just providing food, the kitchen has become a symbol of resilience, solidarity, and community rebuilding.

Neighborhood Summer Camp

Following the Beirut blast, Berrad El Hay launched the Neighborhood Summer Camp, a dynamic two-week educational and recreational program designed to support children from our
communities.

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Food Distribution

We distributed meals to ensure that those affected
had access to nutritious food.

16000 Hot Meals Provided
370 Food Boxes Distributed

Psycho-Social Support

Our psycho-social support services offered crucial mental health assistance to those dealing with trauma and stress in the aftermath of the explosion.

450 Persons Assisted

Medical Assistance

We provided medical assistance, addressing both immediate injuries and ongoing health needs.

70 Medical Cases Addressed

Community Engagement

Our volunteers and professionals helped the community access essential services and support.

240 Referrals Made
80 Home Visits Conducted

Testimonials

Voices From our Community

“My shop was destroyed in the blast, taking away my livelihood. I was on the brink of despair when Berrad El Hay stepped in. They provided not just food and medical assistance but also guidance on accessing other essential services. Their approach to relief and recovery has been instrumental in helping me start over. They truly embody the spirit of community and resilience.”

Leila F.

“The psychological impact of the explosion was immense. I couldn’t sleep or focus on anything. Berrad El Hay’s psycho-social support services were crucial for my mental health. The team was compassionate and helped me process the trauma. Their support network made me realize I wasn’t alone in this. I now volunteer with them, hoping to give back to my community.”

Karim J.

“As a mother of three, I was overwhelmed by the devastation caused by the blast. With no income and no home, I didn’t know how I would feed my children. Berrad El Hay’s food distribution program was a blessing. The food boxes and hot meals sustained us during the toughest times. Their volunteers treated us with dignity and respect, and for that, I am eternally grateful.”

Mona A.

“The explosion left my family in a dire situation. My wife and I were both injured, and we were struggling to find medical assistance. Berrad El Hay provided us with immediate medical help. Their dedication and kindness have given us hope and the strength to rebuild our lives.”

Hassan K.

“After the Beirut blast, I lost everything—my home, my belongings, my peace of mind. Berrad El Hay was a lifeline during those dark days. They provided me with food boxes and hot meals when I had nothing. The volunteers also offered emotional support, helping me cope with the trauma. I couldn’t have recovered without their unwavering support.”

Nadine S.

Community Fridge

Fill their Lunchboxes

Terwi2et Zaher