In today’s world, it is easy to scroll through constant updates on the war from Lebanon and the wider region, and feel helpless or overwhelmed.
However, instead of just consuming headlines, you can directly support displaced families, create jobs for refugees, preserve a centuries-old culture, and help others understand the deep history of the region.
Below is a simple guide that focuses on Lebanon, which hosts more than 1.5 million Syrian refugees, as well as its own displaced communities, and benefits the wider region.
Provide immediate relief
He embraces It is one of the most famous mental health organizations in Lebanon, working to make psychological care accessible to everyone. The organization runs the National Mental Health Lifeline and provides counseling, crisis support, and community outreach programs that help people facing depression, trauma, and other mental health struggles.
For immediate relief, American Aid to Refugees in the Near East (Enera), provides bedding, hygiene supplies, food, and health care to displaced Lebanese and refugees through local partners such as hospitals and community centers. They now serve at least 50% of Lebanese families along with refugees.
Lebanon girls It is a new grassroots community initiative that provides immediate, on-the-ground support to people in Lebanon. Through their volunteer network, they focus on urgent humanitarian needs such as food distribution, emergency supplies and direct assistance to families affected by instability and economic hardship.
Buy from brands that employ displaced refugees
Many brands and social enterprises in Lebanon directly employ Syrian and Palestinian refugee women and local residents in craft work, turning skills into income.
Shatila Studio In Beirut, it employs more than 100 Syrian and Palestinian refugee women in embroidery, sewing and crochet. Their handmade products provide steady employment in the Shatila refugee camp.
Touch It is also a women-led crochet group that offers dignified employment opportunities and creative training to refugee and Lebanese women. They work in partnership with Syrian-led community-based NGOs and multiple aid programs in Bekaa, Lebanon. Every purchase helps sustain a community of craft makers in crisis, supporting the livelihoods of 10 Syrian and Lebanese artisans.
Made51a global brand supported by UNHCR, features home decor and accessories made by refugee artisans, including Syrians in Lebanon. Every purchase supports fair wages and skills retention.
Supporting brands that preserve Lebanese culture and heritage
Lebanon’s heritage, which includes Phoenician roots, Ottoman architecture, and vibrant craft traditions, is under threat due to conflict and economic pressures. Buying from ethical brands keeps traditional crafts alive and supports communities in taking them forward.
Lebanon makers It is a digital marketplace that connects buyers directly with village artisans across the country. Purchases help preserve crafts such as pottery, weaving and jewelry while growing local businesses.
Orient 499 It collaborates with more than 200 artisans from Lebanon and the Levant for sustainable fashion, home decor and accessories. They focus on ethical production and keeping ancient techniques alive.
Fair trade in Lebanon It encourages rural producers and traditional foods, and also uplifts communities while preserving culinary and agricultural heritage.
To donate, start with one donation this week, and one purchase from a refugee or artisan-made brand.