Help Beirut Bookstore's Outreach to the Vulnerable

As we write these words, it is difficult to describe the pain, sadness and anger that has engulfed the Lebanese people, and the urgent need to help. 

On Tuesday, a massive explosion rocked the capital, leaving at least 100 people dead, 4,000 injured, and over 300,000 forced into homelessness. Hundreds of bodies are buried under rubbles, crucial infrastructure is destroyed, and hospitals are overwhelmed. The blast completely destroyed Lebanon's largest port - making it virtually impossible to import food and other aid by sea, and food security is a real threat.
 
Lebanon was already facing its worst economic crisis in history coupled with rising coronavirus cases. Almost everyone living in the city has had property badly damaged or lost loved ones. With hyperinflation and a financial crisis that has wiped out people’s life savings, barely anyone can afford repair.

The Lebanese are once again displaying an indomitable spirit of generosity and hope. Among the places badly damaged is the very special Manara book store off Hamra street, which supports vulnerable people from all walks of life and has always focused on rebuilding the lives of people around them. They have continued to generously help those in need throughout the pandemic and period of rising inflation. Their efforts are now even more urgent due to the massive explosion. Save the Children says in the Greater Beirut area almost one million people do not have money to buy food. 

For my 24th birthday on August 8, I am asking for donations to the Manara bookstore. A small portion will go to the bookstore repair, and the majority of funds will go to their outreach programs to vulnerable children and adults whose lives have been devastated. As corruption is pervasive, we personally know and confide very much in the store employees and owner, and will post photo updates of how your donations will have a direct impact on rehabilitation in Beirut through their outreach program. 
 
Thank you for your consideration,
 
AJ Naddaff (Davidson College Class '19, CASA Egypt '20)
 
Dr. Rebecca Joubin (Chair and Associate Professor of Arab Studies, Davidson College)