Lebanon's Crisis Forces Both Emergency and Development Aid

Sr. Antoinette Assaf, director of the mission development office for the Good Shepherd Sisters International Foundation (GSIF), explained how the foundation continues to support ministries in Lebanon despite the ongoing war with Israel and multiple crises. The foundation operates in both Lebanon and Syria, with 34 sisters based primarily in Lebanon, most of whom are Lebanese or Syrian.

Assaf emphasized that GSIF chooses both emergency response and development efforts in Lebanon. She cited St. John Chrysostom's teachings, stating that people must first be fed and cared for before being open to spiritual development. She described Lebanon's current situation as a layered crisis, including economic collapse, displacement, and the collapse of basic services like education and healthcare.

The Lebanese pound has lost 98% of its value, rendering money nearly useless. Thousands of families have been displaced by repeated wars, and basic services are nearly non-existent. Young girls and women face particular challenges, including disrupted education, pressure for early marriages, and increased gender-based violence. There are no safe spaces for girls, and healthcare is limited to emergency care only.

GSIF provides rapid protection services through a church network, offering food, medicine, and supplies to displaced families. The sisters also manage gender-based violence by intervening in family situations and providing social and psychological support. Development efforts include vocational training, education continuity, and extracurricular activities for children. Programs for women focus on economic empowerment through skill-building.

Collaboration between sisters, lay partners, and GSIF staff has been crucial. Local leaders take the lead, with GSIF providing funding and planning support. The foundation's dual approach of emergency aid and development is made possible by this partnership. Resilience is key, as communities and service providers continue to navigate ongoing trauma and instability.

GSIF reported outcomes including safe spaces for 30 families, education for over 1,000 children, and support for more than 600 families. A story highlighted the impact of internet access and psychological support for children displaced by war, leading to academic success. Assaf thanked donors for funding the capacity of service providers, enabling vulnerable women and girls to build a future despite ongoing crises.