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Lebanon is a country in collapse: people are getting poorer and poorer, young people are also leaving the country illegally, risking death at sea, a phenomenon never before seen in the country. So many families who did not have problems before are now asking for help to be able to send their children to school or to get treatment, just think that a Covid-19 diagnostic swab costs as much as a monthly salary.

After the tragic explosion that devastated Beirut on Aug. 4, we took immediate action by distributing food parcels, medicines and personal hygiene products to families in need; we restored more than sixty homes and helped some businesses restart, but now it is time to rebuild not only the city, but also the wounded souls of our Lebanese brothers and sisters.

People not only need material aid, but also need to recover hope. A hope that is created in meeting, that comes from not feeling alone. That is why we have thought of a center to stay in touch with people and continue to help them: it will be called "Crossing together," a project born from the minds and hearts of the young people of the Apostolic Vicariate and the student associations of the University of Beirut, to say loudly that only together can we overcome difficulties, thanks to help, listening and mutual support.

Crossing Together means let's go beyond, together, a wish but above all a cry for help, that of the people of Beirut, which can no longer go unheard. The project involves the construction of a community center that will be built in the Rmeil neighborhood, one of the hardest hit by the blast, on the premises of a former supermarket that was destroyed in the disaster. The center will be the focal point for 300 struggling families, more than 1,000 people, living in the neighborhood.

The project is supported by the John Paul II Foundation and promoted by the Apostolic Vicariate of Latinos in Beirut in collaboration with Design Impact Lab and Design for Community.

What we will do with your help

Help for people and families in need: up to 800 hot meals a day will be cooked and basic necessities, including masks and sanitizing gels, will be distributed to each of the 300 families followed by the center.

Health and prevention: a Health Point will be activated to which people can turn for help, receive psychological support and be directed to the most appropriate treatment path.

Education and school support: children and adolescents will be supported in their educational journey through the provision of free scholarships, free individual and group lessons and tutoring, as well as books and school supplies.

Awareness and active citizenship: seminars and meetings will be held within the center on topics such as violence against women, substance abuse, road safety, inclusion, and environmental sustainability.