Photo: BAS.
Update on one of our project partners in Lebanon: Beit Atfal Assomoud (The National Institute for Social Care and Vocational Training)
Widespread hostilities and attacks on Lebanon has yet another time created a humanitarian crisis, with mass displacement and many casualties. Access to healthcare, education, and social protection remains limited, placing increased pressure on humanitarian actors.
Despite these challenges, NORWAC’s partners across the country remain open and operational. One of them is Beit Atfal Assomoud, one of the main humanitarian actors in the Palestinian refugee camps, where they offer primary healthcare, psychosocial follow-up and a range of other activities, with a particular focus on children and the young. During this round of war, the organisation has provided essential support to thousands of displaced families. At the same time they continue their strong commitment to supporting children and youth.
As a part of this work, Beit Atfal Assomoud recently held an intensive training for youth volunteers through its Music Program. The training focused on equipping young participants with the skills needed to lead interactive musical activities that support children’s psychological well-being and help reduce stress during difficult times.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to create safe and supportive spaces for children. Here, music becomes a tool for expression, emotional release, and a sense of safety and belonging.
NORWAC also partners with Beit Atfal Assomoud, on the Peer Education Program (Ungdom hjelper Ungdom på norsk), which supports young people aged 14-25 in refugee camps across Lebanon. The program provides training in areas such as specialised mental helath services, psychosocial support, reproductive health, violence prevention, and leadership, enabling youth to support one another in challenging circumstances. You can read more about the program HERE. All donations go directly to BAS.
We are grateful to work alongside partners like Beit Atfal Assomoud,, whose efforts help ensure that children and youth continue to find support, safety, and a sense of normalcy in difficult times. With a ceasefire announced between Israel and Lebanon on 16 April, the situation may finally take a turn for the better, for the good work of Beit Atfal Assomoud, and everyone they care for.
