Update from our Talitha Kum network in Lebanon. The situation in the country due to heavy bombardments across Lebanon is dire, with civilians in the South being forced to evacuate, leading to widespread displacement. Many families are struggling to find shelter because government schools are overcrowded, though some parishes have opened their doors. We ask for your prayers as the bombardments continue, and the country remains in a state of deep instability and danger. 

Before this recent escalation, Talitha Kum had been actively working in various villages in the South, as well as in the outskirts of Beirut and the Palestinian camps. Between May and July 2024, the Children Awareness Program, organized by Wells of Hope - Lebanon, carried out activities in the Bekaa region. 

The program welcomed 100 children aged 6 to 18 at the free Episcopal School for Greek Catholics in the small town of Jabboule. This region shelters a large population of migrants and refugees, including children facing various social challenges such as drug use, parental absence, and unstable family environment. The children were divided into three age groups: 6-12 years (60 children), 13-15 years (24 children), and 16-18 years (16 children).

The program aimed to provide a safe and nurturing environment, offering educational support, counseling, and recreational activities to these vulnerable children. Led by the Wells of Hope team, Elies Mouwad and Nayiri Arslanian, the sessions focused on raising awareness about the risks of human trafficking and exploitation, including online dangers and social media risks. Tailored sessions targeted the specific vulnerabilities of each age group.

In total, 180 students participated in the program, which was supported by the Talitha Kum Lebanon team. The sessions were successful in educating children about different forms of exploitation, preventive measures, and how to protect themselves from potential harm. Overall, the support provided to these children was essential in addressing their needs and ensuring their well-being. In the free Episcopal School for Greek Catholics, students had an opportunity to learn, grow, and heal in a nurturing and compassionate environment. The initiative offered more than just education—it provided a sense of community, and the care and attention the students needed to overcome their challenges.

Overall, the program was a crucial initiative in combating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable groups in Lebanon. Through education, awareness, and preventive measures, the network is taking proactive steps to address the challenges faced by the community and ensure the safety and security of its young residents.