UNICEF USA Lebanon Support Fund

The devastating explosion that rocked Beirut on August 4 — killing at least 140, wounding more than 5,000 and displacing 300,000 from their homes, including 100,000 children — was the latest chapter in an already terrible crisis unfolding in Lebanon. Economic collapse, food insecurity and a surge in COVID-19 cases have left children and families across the country in need of emergency assistance. 

Families in Lebanon are facing multiple overlapping crises: an economy in freefall, food insecurity, COVID-19 

Triggered by about 2,750 metric tons of ammonium nitrate, a highly explosive chemical compound used in agricultural fertilizers and bombs, stored in Beirut's port district, the blast tore through the city, flipping cars and smashing windows. Hospitals, already overwhelmed, were inundated with injured victims. At least 12 health care facilities serving nearly 120,000 people were affected; a children's hospital specializing in the care of critically ill infants was destroyed, killing one newborn. Beirut's air is filled with dust; there are concerns that it may be toxic, particularly for children. The search for survivors continues. 

For more information please visit UNICEF USA Lebanon Support Fund