For years, FEMALE has stood unwavering in the face of unimaginable hardships. From the COVID-19 pandemic to the devastating Beirut port explosion in 2020, and our recent interventions in South Lebanon since October 2023—including a free medical day for women and children in June 2024—we have been there, side by side with our people. Now, as our beloved country once again bleeds, our commitment has only grown stronger.
Since September 23rd, our hearts have grown heavier with each new horror of the attacks and acts of genocide unfolding in South Lebanon, the Beqaa, and throughout Lebanon. Families have been torn from their homes, terrorized, and forced to flee with nothing, finding shelter in schools, houses, and streets. Their pain is our pain.
The Israeli attack on September 23rd resulted in the displacement of over 1,000,000 people, adding to the already staggering 112,000 displaced since October 2023. In response to the devastating impact of Israeli aggression on Lebanon, FEMALE has swiftly transformed its operations to focus on humanitarian relief efforts. Our primary mission is to support displaced families, especially women and children, by providing essential emergency items such as mattresses, blankets, pillows, medicine, and food supplies.
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Our Commitment to Dignity and Hygiene
Understanding the unique needs of women and girls during crises, FEMALE has distributed hygiene kits that include various crucial items like menstrual pads, wipes, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, shower gel, hairbrushes, nail care kits, hand soap, cotton buds, bath sponges, underwear, and razors. Alongside mattresses, pillows, blankets, food supplies, and medicines, these essentials ensure that personal dignity and hygiene are maintained during these challenging times.
Some numbers for only the first week of our intervention
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The challenges extend beyond hygiene and comfort, as maintaining decent health becomes increasingly difficult for women and girls who are menstruating or pregnant while fleeing war or staying in overcrowded shelters. Poor sanitation and menstrual hygiene in emergencies can lead to illness and restrict mobility. Additionally, the heightened risk of gender-based violence in such situations further jeopardizes their health. Among the displaced, an estimated 2,300 pregnant women are present, with 260 expected to give birth in the coming month. In crisis settings, pregnancy poses serious risks, especially for those lacking access to prenatal care and safe delivery services.
Safe Havens for the Displaced
Our offices in Beirut and Tripoli have been transformed into temporary shelters for displaced families, offering them a safe haven amidst the chaos. Through our extensive network, we continue to assist families in meeting their basic needs. FEMALE’s dedicated team of over 80 volunteers is stationed across Lebanon, providing direct support in Beirut, Chouf, Mount Lebanon, Tripoli, and is now extending aid to the Beqaa region.
Addressing Gender-Based Violence
Crucially, FEMALE also offers psychosocial support, focusing on assisting women affected by gender-based violence (GBV) during this crisis. Our volunteers stand ready to provide immediate, compassionate support and care, along with referrals whenever needed.
Shattered Safe Spaces: Our Centers Under Attack
 Tragically, our efforts have been met with severe losses. We lost two centers that served as safe spaces for women and girls in Nabatieh and Beqaa. Our office in South Lebanon was completely destroyed; it was directly targeted and bombed. The Beqaa center has also suffered damage due to the blasts and remains at risk of further destruction. These centers were places where youth could study, share their thoughts, and learn, featuring feminist libraries and serving as safe spaces in regions often resistant to the feminist movement.
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Standing Together for a Brighter Future
Despite these setbacks, we remain committed to standing with Lebanon’s vulnerable communities, including women, girls, people with disabilities, Palestinian and Syrian refugees, domestic workers, and LGBTQ individuals. Your continued support is vital in sustaining these life-saving efforts. Together, we can provide hope and healing to those who need it most. Let us continue to fight for dignity, safety, and the fundamental rights of all people, especially women and children, in these tiring times.
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Support Our Efforts
To contribute to our ongoing humanitarian response, please consider making a donation:
Name Holder: FEMALE
Bank Name: BLOM BANK S.A.L
Bank Address: Al Omara, Main Road, Mouhtar & Haidar Bldg., Mount Lebanon, Choueifat Branch
Account Number: 052-02-353-1458554-1-5
IBAN: LB55001400005202353145855415
SWIFT: BLOMLBBX
WishMoney:
Account ID: 21028762-01
Phone Number: +96171426870
Thank you for your unwavering support. Together, we can make a difference.
