From late September to the end of November in 2024, Lebanon faced rising violence that left the country reeling with new humanitarian needs amidst an already crippling economic crisis. Over 4,000 civilians lost their lives, and more than 16,000 were injured. Families were torn apart, and entire communities were uprooted. By early December, more than 750,000 people had been forced to flee their homes—a displacement crisis larger than the one during the 2006 war.
For those caught in the middle, life became a daily fight for survival. Buildings crumbled, agricultural land was destroyed, and access to basic services—healthcare, food, water—were cut off. In South Lebanon, families struggle to rebuild their lives, often with little more than the clothes on their backs. That’s where Action Against Hunger stepped in, working to deliver hope and vital support to those in desperate need.
Sofia’s story is one of courage in the face of unimaginable challenges. She lived with her two young children in Laylaki, a place they called home… until the violence forced them to flee. One night, with explosions shaking the air and fear gripping their hearts, Sofia grabbed her children and left everything behind.
“Our life changed overnight,” she said, her voice heavy with emotion. “We were so scared and left as soon as we could.”
By the time they arrived in Hadath, it was midnight. Sofia and her family took shelter in an unfinished building—cracked floors, no walls, no doors. It was hardly a home, but it was shelter. The nights were cold, and the sounds of crying children and whispers of worried families filled the air.
“My baby was sick. I had no milk, no diapers, no medicine,” Sofia shared, tears brimming in her eyes. She felt hopeless, unsure how she could protect her children in such harsh conditions.
Thanks to the support of the Humanitarian Coalition and Global Affairs Canada, Action Against Hunger was able to support families like Sofia’s in their moment of need. For Sofia, this meant receiving critical help that gave her the strength to keep going.
First, Sofia received counseling on infant and young child feeding (IYCF), using tools designed to address both her children’s nutritional and mental health needs. Sofia’s children were screened using MUAC (Mid-Upper Arm Circumference), and micronutrient powder (MNP) was provided to prevent deficiencies.
“My son, Abdel Malek, is in good health now, and the powder they gave us keeps him strong,” Sofia said, relief evident in her voice.
But the support didn’t stop there. Sofia attended guidance sessions on breastfeeding, complementary feeding, and childcare. She learned how to keep her children healthy even in such difficult times.
“I learned so much about feeding my baby and keeping him healthy,” she said. “The sessions gave me confidence and hope.”
Action Against Hunger also provided essentials relief items and access to clean water. These small but vital measures made a big difference in helping Sofia and her family survive the day-to-day hardships.
“We are still scared,” Sofia admitted. “But I dream of rebuilding our life and giving my children the stability they deserve.” Her voice, though quiet, carried a determination that was impossible to miss.
Sofia’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. Even in the darkest times, hope finds a way to shine through. Thanks to the support she received, Sofia has been able to focus on keeping her family safe and healthy. Now, with the ceasefire in place, she’s holding onto the hope of a brighter future.
Sofia’s journey is just one of many. Thousands of families across Lebanon are still struggling to recover. They need shelter, food, water, and other essentials. With your help, Action Against Hunger can continue to provide life-saving assistance to those who need it most.
Together, we can help families like Sofia’s rebuild their lives—and their hope.
Action Against Hunger leads the global movement to end hunger. We innovate solutions, advocate for change, and reach 21 million people every year with proven hunger prevention and treatment programs. As a nonprofit that works across 56 countries, our 8,900 dedicated staff members partner with communities to address the root causes of hunger, including climate change, conflict, inequity, and emergencies. We strive to create a world free from hunger, for everyone, for good.
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