The Starting Point. The civil war in Syria has been raging since spring 2011. Many seek shelter in neighboring Lebanon, the highest density spot of foreign refugees worldwide. Many refugee families live in Beirut and the surrounding area. This region does not only have high unemployment rate, but also high cost of living. Lack of financial resources and constantly rising costs make it harder for both Syrian and Lebanese families to face ever increasing challenges. Winter brings rain and cold in the area, and snow at higher altitudes. Poorer families encounter more challenges to ensure survival.
The Goal. Funds were given to 270 families for three months. Those selected as recipients were both Syrian and Lebanese families. They decided themselves where their need is greatest, and how to spend the money. They received during the winter months as financial support to ensure survival.
The Project. The longer the crisis, the greater the people suffer. In 2014, still 49 percent of registered Syrians in Lebanon lived under the poverty line. In 2015 it shot up to 70 percent. There is no improvement in sight, on the contrary: The cost of living is constantly rising and the unemployment rate remains high. In winter, families need additional funds to buy blankets, warm clothes and fuel. This money is often not available. In 2016, from January to March, 216 Syrian and 54 Lebanese families in Beirut received $ 100 US monthly additional funds to cover winter expenses. They decide themselves where their need is greatest, and how the money is to be spent. The project team selected one person per family and gave an e-card. With this card, the family received information and assumed responsibility for using and managing money. A brochure in the local language summarized these points again and explained how to use the e-card. For questions or complaints there is a phone number available. In special cases, ADRA has visited the families to explain things in more details when necessary.
