When violence erupted in southern Lebanon, Ramzi and his family were forced to make a life-altering escape. Leaving everything behind, they sought refuge in Beirut, where their challenges continued. But through the support of Manara Youth Center, they discovered unexpected hope. We invite you to read this story of kindness amid turmoil.
Running for Their Lives
At 9:15 a.m., Ramzi was at work as a stonemason in southern Lebanon when the sky rained down missiles over his village. He rushed home on his motorcycle, desperate to reach his children, his pregnant wife, and his 80-year-old mother. Moments later, an explosion shattered a building just 100 meters from their house. With no time to gather belongings, the family fled, carrying only the clothes on their backs.
The family walked on foot until a kind stranger offered them a ride. Due to immense traffic, they made it to Beirut several hours later (usually a two-hour drive).
“My mother could barely walk,” Ramzi recalled. “I carried her on my back for nearly 60 meters while holding one of my children’s hands, and my wife held the others.”
But safety came at a cost. “We left everything behind,” Ramzi said. “We had nothing.”
Before Project
Finding A Means for Living
In Beirut, Ramzi found refuge on a shelter school’s premises.
“It was a tough time,” Ramzi said. “We had no income, and I tried to take on side jobs even for very little pay.” One day, the school principal saw his skills and connected him to Manara Youth Center. The center was in the middle of an environmental and economic sustainability initiative (in partnership with Tearfund) to clean and restore the surrounding neighborhood.
“The center saved me,” Ramzi said. “I couldn’t even buy food for my children the month before.”
Through Manara’s initiatives, Ramzi not only found employment but also contributed to environmental restoration. The center’s environmental and economic sustainability efforts revitalized the area, turning the neighborhood into a welcoming environment.
After Project
Finding A Place of Comfort
Ramzi and his family also attended the center’s relief programs for displaced families. These programs provided more than material aid; they became a source of emotional and spiritual healing.
“Whenever we were at the center, we forgot there was a war,” Ramzi said. “We waited for our time there in anticipation.”
Mental health groups offered a safe space for the family to process their trauma. Drama therapy sessions often turned into emotional breakthroughs, as participants released their pain and found paths to healing.
“They helped us remember past traumas and find comfort,” Ramzi shared. “Once, during a session, everyone was so moved it became like a weeping session.”
The kindness of the staff made a lasting impact. “From our first visit, their smiley faces made us feel at home. They treated us with respect and even provided meals. They have an incredible ability to make people feel at ease.”
As we continue our relief efforts, many families remain unable to safely return to their homes despite the ceasefire. Please join us in praying for their protection, provision, and peace during this uncertain time. Pray also for strength and wisdom as we work to meet their needs.