Showing compassion to the vulnerable in Lebanon

LOUISVILLE — A clinic operated by the Jinishian Memorial Association of Lebanon is making a difference in the lives of  vulnerable people affected by regional conflict and economic pressures in the Middle Eastern country. 

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Earlier this year, JMA Lebanon received extra funding from the Jinishian Memorial Program (JMP) to continue offering timely, compassionate and dignified services in Lebanon’s capital city of Beirut amid a growing humanitarian and economic crisis. JMP is a program of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). 

The JMP U.S. Advisory Council approved the additional emergency grant in response to the increasing needs of affected communities and because of ongoing instability plaguing Lebanon.

The association serves almost 3,000 vulnerable individuals a month, offering things like:

• Medical consultations
• Medications for chronic illnesses
• Other medical assistance and humanitarian aid
• Community development and emergency relief for families and individuals
• Psychosocial support for teenagers and young adults
• Educational programs
• Livelihood initiatives
• Elder care
• Child protection

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Such services are “extremely crucial” because many families struggle with severe economic burdens, unemployment and emotional distress, making it difficult to meet basic needs, said Christine Tanielian, country director at the JMA Lebanon. 

“Many of the families we support are facing heartbreaking circumstances,” she said. “We encounter elderly individuals living alone without sufficient medication or nutrition, parents unable to provide basic needs — even meals — and educational necessities for their children.”  

Lebanon has been deeply affected by the crisis in the Middle East, where the U.S. has been at war with Iran, and strikes by Israel against the Iran-backed militant group and political party Hezbollah have devastated southern Lebanon, with healthcare workers at places like Hiram Hospital among those injured in the deadly conflict.

Overall, almost 1 million people are displaced across the country amid an escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah that began in March, UN News reported May 26.

Many displaced people have fled to Beirut, increasing the need for services. The UN News article noted that dozens of families had been taken into Beirut shelters in just the last couple of days.

“The ongoing instability and conflict have deeply impacted our daily operations,” Tanielian said. “Rising needs among the families, financial pressures, ongoing inflation, transportation difficulties, emotional exhaustion and uncertainty have all increased the challenges of our work. Despite these obstacles, our team remains committed to continuing our mission and reaching those most in need.”

In addition to refugees, some locals who previously had been self-sufficient are now turning up for assistance because the poor economy has left them at risk of homelessness. There also are youngsters in angst at the thought of having to go out to try to earn money to help support their families.

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“Those who were considered middle class — those who never came to the office — are lining up by the office for help,” said Eliza Minasyan, who manages JMP.

However, the clients are more than their difficulties and struggles, Tanielian said.

“Even amid hardship, we witness remarkable resilience, gratitude and hope from those we serve,” she said. 

Positive feedback from clients has included one who said that “even a small support makes us feel that we are not alone,” according to the social work staff.

Compassion and solidarity are among the reasons why support from the PC(USA) and the JMP are so important.

“We would like Presbyterians and all compassionate supporters to know that Lebanon is going through a very difficult time and that their solidarity truly makes a difference,” Tanielian said. “Every contribution, prayer and act of support helps restore hope and dignity to people facing immense challenges. Our work is not only about providing aid but also about reminding people that they are not forgotten and that compassion still exists, even in the most difficult times.”