Anera’s Winterization Efforts Bring Warmth to Lebanon’s Displaced

This winter, Lebanon's biting cold arrived far earlier than usual, underscoring the urgency of Anera's winterization efforts. Even in coastal cities, heavy blankets were needed by the first week of October-a stark contrast to previous years, where the real cold didn't set in until mid-November.

For internally displaced families residing in Lebanon, the early chill has made survival even more challenging. In response, Anera has partnered with UNICEF and volunteers from the National Volunteering Platform (Nahno) to swiftly initiate efforts aimed at providing warmth and comfort to those in need.

Widespread destruction: This damaged building in Tyre, Lebanon, reflects the extensive impact of Israeli bombing across the country.

Since October, Anera has been distributing winter clothing kits to displaced individuals, ensuring recipients of all ages are equipped with essential garments to endure the harsh weather. In addition to clothing, families in need have received heavy blankets and materials to help insulate their temporary shelters, providing critical warmth and protection from the cold.

For many displaced families, the realization that they would be away from their homes for an extended period came too late to prepare. A 60-year-old father from South Lebanon recounted, "When we got displaced, ironically, the weather was quite nice. We didn't think of packing any winter clothes; we moved with the clothes we had on." Similarly, a 43-year-old mother shared, "When we left our house, we didn't expect to stay away for this long. We didn't pack any winter clothes." These testimonies highlight the sudden and unprepared nature of their displacement, making the provision of winter clothing kits all the more vital.

Elie Tawk, Anera's Field Coordinator, recounted a poignant moment during one winter clothing distribution: "There was an old couple we delivered winter clothes to; it was their first time ever taking something from someone. They were so hesitant, but their shy gratitude was deeply humbling. It reminded me that this could happen to anyone-they could be anyone's parents."

The winter clothing kits, sourced through donations from UNICEF, FabricAid, and others, have been a lifeline. Volunteers from Nahno play a crucial role in sorting, categorizing, and distributing these donations, including a massive nine-ton donation of winter clothing from UNICEF.

Harnessing Youth Job Skills to Respond to Immediate Needs

Anera's vocational training programs have empowered youth to contribute directly to Lebanon's winterization efforts. Trainees from sewing and tailoring courses, supported by UNICEF and KFW and implemented by Anera, have produced hundreds of sleeping bags for displaced families. For these young individuals, the opportunity to help others has been as transformative as the training itself.

A Collaborative Effort to Provide Warmth

Anera's winterization efforts exemplify the power of collaboration, bringing together international organizations, local communities and dedicated youth volunteers. From clothing donations to vocational training, every initiative reflects a shared commitment to supporting Lebanon's displaced population. As cold weather sets in, these efforts bring more than warmth-they deliver dignity, hope, and a sense of solidarity to those who need it most.

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