Volunteers rally to ensure no child is left behind in Lebanon’s Tripoli
Laughter echoes around the playground at a restaurant in the Lebanese city of Tripoli as 30 children bounce on trampolines, listen to stories and create drawings showing their hopes and dreams.
Residents in the country’s most impoverished city, where Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr treats are hard to come by, are happy to hear these joyful noises.
An organisation called We Love Tripoli has organised the Ramadan events, which include educational activities and the distribution of Eid clothes, followed by a traditional iftar meal.
A deep economic crisis has pushed more than 80 per cent of Lebanon’s population into poverty, according to the UN.
Amar, 33, a board member of We Love Tripoli, says volunteers and private donors “are demonstrating generosity and motivation” despite the crisis.
About 30 volunteers were involved in the April 1 event for underprivileged children. Activities were aimed at raising awareness about bullying.
The children, between the ages of seven and 11, were shy at first, but eventually came out of their shells.
“I learnt that we should respect everyone, no matter what makes them different,” one boy said after listening to a story.
This was one of many events arranged by We Love Tripoli, a youth-led organisation established in 2009 to promote cultural, social and environmental activities and support underprivileged children.
Their activities take place in children’s play areas rented by the non-profit organisation
“It is a great opportunity for vulnerable children, who may not have had the chance to celebrate Eid otherwise,” said Hassan, 36, a consultant who has been volunteering with We love Tripoli since it was founded.
“They are not only having fun, but they are also learning. This is a very empowering experience and important to ensure equal opportunities for all.”
Fund-raising campaigns launched on social media at the beginning of the holy month help the group to carry out its activities. The organisation depends on the dedication of about 500 volunteers.
“Ramadan is a special time,” said Abdulkader, 30, a filmmaker volunteering for We Love Tripoli.
“And in light of the present difficulties, we feel an even stronger sense of responsibility to help our community.”
Even before Lebanon’s economic downturn, Tripoli was gripped by extreme poverty and inequality as a result of decades of negligence by authorities.
We Love Tripoli plans to organise events for the community throughout the year.
It also managed a children’s centre in Al Mina district, which supports hundreds of children. The centre is currently being relocated.
“Today’s beneficiaries were chosen from our pre-existing database using socioeconomic criteria,” Amar said.
For the children who attended, the event was a success.
“We are all neighbours and we used to come to the old centre in Mina. We love it here and always enjoy playing and having fun,” said Mohamed, 11.