Beginning of October, we launched our program for displaced families sheltered in a school in Jal El Dib (11km far from Beirut) in collaboration with Shi Bi FEED. The initiative included recreational activities for youth and children, alongside mental health support through focus groups and art therapy. Here is a glimpse at our first visit to the school through the eyes of our youth workers.
When they first arrived, youth workers were pleasantly surprised by the positive reception from families, who were enthusiastic and engaged during this first encounter. Elie, a youth worker, observed, “The whole community just needed to have fun. They are nice people in a bad spot trying to recreate the home they lost in the South within the confines of the school building.” Sandra echoed this sentiment, recalling, “They were all very sweet. One girl joked that her laugh was just as loud as mine! Ten-year-old Ali was another highlight; he was so interactive and appreciative.”
Amid the fun, however, our youth workers glimpsed the underlying pain experienced by these families. During the art therapy sessions, one child sat at the coloring station for the entire time, drawing a family. When he looked up, his eyes were red and teary. At the bracelet station, as Sandra engaged a group of girls in conversation about their hobbies, one girl revealed her passion for crocheting but she couldn’t pursue it because her tools were left behind in the South. She remarked, “They are trying to adapt to their reality as several families huddle in the same classroom, but it’s not easy. It rained a few days ago, and it was a very cold night for them.”
Our youth workers are deeply committed to serving these families, yet they also grapple with their own emotional challenges amidst the ongoing conflict. Karmen shared her struggle to balance fear with faith: “I’m scared, but I’m not panicking. It’s hard not to wonder what will happen next—it sometimes feels like a wall blocking the future. Life isn’t normal, but I trust that God is in control. I worry, but then I surrender, reminding myself that He is good.”
Issa, another youth worker, relates closely to the families, as many of his loved ones lived in the targeted area. He reflected, “They have left and are safe, but many people I know have been affected, which can be overwhelming. But I know whom I’ve believed, and I’m learning to surrender everything to Him .”
Sandra added, “Watching these families suffer is heartbreaking, but the Lord uses these moments. We’re able to reach families and a people group we never thought possible. I pray for opportunities to share the Gospel and show them the love of Christ.”
As we continue serving displaced families and sharing God’s love, we invite you to come alongside us in this vital work. Please consider donating to help us continue being the hands and feet of Jesus in Lebanon. Your donation will help us extend our relief efforts and reach families in need. Every contribution counts toward providing essentials, emotional care, and hope during this challenging time. Together, we can offer both practical aid and–more importantly–Christ.