Jawaher Al Qasimi launches ‘Salam Beirut’ campaign

Lebanon is in mourning after a massive explosion ripped through Beirut port killing more than 70 people and injuring 4,000 on August 4. Many countries and humanitarian aid organizations are coming together to lend a helping hand to Lebanon. UAE also acted quickly and responsibly to help the nation in distress.

H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, and Chairperson of The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), today tweeted the announcement of “Salam Beirut”.

“Salam Beirut” aims to bring relief to the affected population whose numbers continue to rise as Lebanese officials pick through the wreckage. It is planned to be done in phases in order to make it more effective.

The first phase will focus on providing medical aid, food, and water supplies and shelter to victims. This will be mobilized by the Sharjah-based global humanitarian organization, TBHF in coordination with on-ground relief operators in Lebanon.

Announcing the campaign on Twitter, Sheikha Jawaher wrote, “What has hurt Beirut has hurt us all”, and called on all individuals and organizations in the UAE and worldwide to lend a helping hand.”

“Our brothers and sisters in Lebanon need us and we must do our best to fulfill our moral and humanitarian duty towards them. We know no other way but to stand firmly beside those who lost everything overnight – their loved ones, their homes, their livelihoods, and their safety – to this shocking tragedy,” she continued.

In the second phase, TBHF officials along with their local partners will carry out a detailed assessment of the damage to property. This will be done to implement targeted activities and provide affected households with rehabilitation support. Rubble removal, in addition to solutions, to boost vital services such as electricity, sanitation, plumbing, and carpentry will be included in this.

“We pray to Allah Almighty to have mercy on the victims, heal the wounded, guide those who are missing back to their homes, and give strength to those who lost their loved ones,” the TBHF Chairperson added.

According to the Lebanese Ministry of Health and Beirut Governorate, the accident has claimed 157 lives, left more than 5,000 wounded and dozens of missing persons, in addition to the thousands of families whose houses were partially or totally destroyed. An estimated 300,000 people have been left homeless.

Donations to the “Salam Beirut” drive can be made by sending SMS to
https://bh.ikhair.net/ml/lebn; bank transfers to Sharjah Islamic Bank A/C No: 0011-430430-024 IBAN: AE900410000011430430024; cheques and cash payments by contacting TBHF on 0557574930.