The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has led to mass displacement in Lebanon and emergency aid is needed urgently. Around the world, members of the Xavier Network are mobilizing support for the work of the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) and related Jesuit programs like the Arrupe Migrant Center in Lebanon.
According to the UN and Lebanese authorities, over a million people have been forced to flee their homes due to the escalating conflict. This includes members of the JRS staff in Lebanon. At this time, the Jesuits and their lay partners are shifting their focus and resources to provide emergency aid and shelter. Teams have been distributing basic hygiene items, mattresses, and food in the shelters near the JRS Lebanon centers located in safer regions. Additionally, a space to accommodate displaced people, including migrants, has been set up. By Friday, September 27, 3,428 displaced individuals had taken shelter in Bar Elias, the Arrupe Migrant Center, Qabelias Elementary School, and other areas.
Our friends and partners on the ground are in urgent need of support for this endeavor in the short term and will need continued aid as the situation develops in the long term.
In the United States, Jesuit communities and affiliates are channeling support towards JRS USA which is coordinating with their counterparts on the ground to provide direct aid where the need is greatest. At the same time, American Jesuits International continues to receive donations for the Arrupe Migrant Center in Lebanon. Any donation you can make to either organization is greatly appreciated.
Further Context
For more than a year, Lebanon has been plunged into a serious socioeconomic and political crisis, as well as increasing tension along its borders, especially in the south.
Since September 23, Lebanon has been experiencing a critical moment following devastating bombings in cities such as Saida, Nabatieh, the Bekaa Valley, and in some neighborhoods of Beirut. The conflict has already claimed more than 1,200 lives, including over 50 children and 94 women, and has left more than 5,278 people injured, according to Lebanese authorities.
This has led to a massive displacement towards areas considered safer. Around 201,000 people are displaced within the country, many seeking refuge in over 390 temporary facilities, such as public schools. At the same time, hundreds of people, both Lebanese and Syrians, are fleeing to Syria to escape the bombings.
Since 2013, JRS Lebanon has assisted thousands of both Lebanese citizens and refugees. They provide education, psychosocial care, housing, and livelihood services in different areas of the country. The team has deep roots in their community and remains committed to caring for their neighbors during this dangerous time. In a recent statement, JRS said “We will continue to walk by their sides. Many of the Syrian refugees and migrant workers whom we have assisted over the years are feeling extremely helpless, lost and trapped in the current situation. Especially children, who have already lived through situations of profound distress are in urgent need of psychosocial support. JRS Lebanon will do everything possible to keep accompanying those in need.”
Fr. Daniel Corrou, S.J., JRS-MENA Regional Director, continues to work with his team to provide aid and shelter to thousands of displaced people, who have fled from southern Lebanon. Fr. Dan said in a letter to colleagues that the JRS team in Lebanon “will need support for this in the short-term and long-term.”
The situation in Lebanon is extremely concerning and continues to change rapidly. Alongside JRS, volunteers from the migrant community and Jesuit schools in the area, we are providing support. Together the teams are working tirelessly to provide humanitarian assistance to the thousands of displaced people. The international community and experts form the Xavier network are closely observing the situation. The humanitarian efforts of JRS staff, community volunteers, and Jesuit schools are addressing the needs of those displaced and affected by this crisis.
