How AHP support has helped families through Lebanon's long, cold winter

Above: Ahmad speaking to a World Vision Lebanon staff member outside of his home. Photo: George Mghames/World Vision Lebanon

Days are longer, water is warmer, and sunshine is abundant – it’s summer in Lebanon. But the difficult winter just passed is still fresh in people’s memories. The devaluation of the currency, hyperinflation and the removal of subsidies on fuel and diesel all contributed to one of the toughest winters families in Lebanon have experienced.

Before the economic crisis, North of Lebanon, specifically Akkar, was one of the most deprived regions of the country. But the latest crisis was the final blow for thousands of local families.

“It was a blessing that we survived the past winter,” Ahmad says with a troubled voice. “At one point, I was burning plastic and cardboard just to keep my children warm.” 

It was one of the longest and coldest seasons the family has experienced.

“It [winter] was harsh. No one expected the snow would last till mid-March, with temperatures around zero degrees Celsius,” says Ahmad. “The main problem was not just the cold weather, but the current economic situation. After the removal of the subsidies, just four litres of diesel was selling for 100,000 Lebanese pounds (approx $97 AUD).”

Ahmad happy to pay off his debt

Under the Australian Humanitarian Partnership (AHP) Lebanon Protracted Crisis Activation, World Vision Lebanon, funded by the Australian Government through the AHP, was able to support Ahmad and other families to meet the increasing costs of living through the provision of Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance.

“After the past winter, I found myself in debt due to buying diesel and wood for the heater. Thanks to this support I can pay off those debts,” says Ahmad. “I am the only provider for my family. I work as a daily worker, but recently it was very difficult to find work opportunities. I am so grateful we received this help.”

The family received $US100 ($AU145) as a first payment and will receive two other payments of $US100 and $US200 ($AU290) over the year.

Above: Abed with his daughter outside their home. Photo: George Mghames/World Vision Lebanon

“I was concerned about next season, especially since it is impossible to borrow money anymore. Now, I can rest assured that my two small children won’t sleep cold next winter,” Ahmad says.

Abed can now afford a new heater

Last winter, 35-year-old Abed’s family had to spend most of their time at home under blankets.

“I only used the heater in the morning before my three children went to school, and a little at night so the beds could get warm. I couldn’t afford to keep the heater lit,” explains Abed.

“Even the heater is not mine. I had to borrow it, as I couldn't buy a new one.”

Abed is a daily worker with the municipality, and his income is barely enough to put food on the table.

Above: Abed shows the old heater his family used. The heater was borrowed, and Abed could not afford to buy wood to run it for much of the winter. He is planning to buy a new heater for the next winter season after receiving cash support. Photo: George Mghames/World Vision Lebanon

“Since I was not always able to buy wood for the heater my children were constantly sick,” he says. “Last winter was very difficult, especially due to the economic situation. It was a horrific three months.”

Abed and his family also benefitted from Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance under the AHP project. “This support couldn’t have arrived at a better time. I plan to buy my own heater for next season. Also, I want to pay off my debts to the grocery store,” says Abed.

The AHP project aims to support 2,135 highly vulnerable families in Akkar with Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance so they can cover winterisation supplies, to make sure their families are warm next winter. The project also aims to introduce environmentally friendly and affordable alternative heating mechanisms.

Plan International is also responding through the AHP Lebanon response, focusing on gender-based violence and child protection services.

Story: George Mghames, World Vision Lebanon