On Tuesday, a deadly explosion in Beirut, Lebanon left more than 130 people dead and injured more (opens in new tab) than 5,000 people. The origin of the blast has yet to be identified by Beirut's governor, Marwan Abboud. Still, officials say the source could be the 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate, an explosive material, that was held at the Port of Beirut for the past six years.
"You would never think it was an explosion," a taxi driver told The New York Times (opens in new tab) of the incident. "More like missiles coming down on us."
The disaster comes at an already difficult time for the country. Lebanon is already heading towards financial collapse amid the coronavirus pandemic that has left many without jobs, little to no savings, and struggling to stay afloat. According to (opens in new tab)AP (opens in new tab), the losses from the blast are estimated to be between $10 to $15 billion, and nearly 300,000 people have been displaced from their homes. If you have the means to be able to contribute, consider donating to these organizations.
The Lebanese Red Cross (opens in new tab) is the main provider of free ambulance services in Lebanon. Its volunteers respond to more than 140,000 emergencies and patient transports a year.
donate now (opens in new tab)
Lebanon Needs (opens in new tab) helps create and cover the cost of healthcare for many impoverished and underserved citizens. They currently help over 150 patients with the cost of their medicine.
donate now (opens in new tab)
Beautiful People Lebanon (opens in new tab) makes over 100 meals per day for local families in need in Lebanon.
donate now (opens in new tab)
The LIFE'S Emergency Relief Fund (opens in new tab) helps families living under the poverty line survive by donating and helping other local non-profit organizations thrive.
donate now (opens in new tab)
Impact Lebanon (opens in new tab) is a nonprofit that has launched a disaster relief fund that will go toward organizations in need of financial assistance.
donate now (opens in new tab)
A global organization (opens in new tab) that strives to ensure the safety and health of children everywhere, and is providing essential supplies to children and families in Beirut in need.
donate now (opens in new tab)
Offre Joie (opens in new tab) will clean and rehabilitate houses that have been affected by the blast while also providing shelter to those who have loss their homes.
donate now (opens in new tab)
This charity organization (opens in new tab) fights hunger and helps provide food to those in need.
donate now (opens in new tab)
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