AFSC raises funds for humanitarian relief in Lebanon

PHILADELPHIA (October 10, 2024) As the Israeli army expands its deadly bombing and ground invasion in Lebanon, the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) has launched an emergency fundraising campaign for humanitarian relief. Over the last few weeks, the Israeli military has killed over 2000 people in Lebanon and displaced more than 1.2 million. Funds will go towards essential items such as food packages, hygiene kits, dignity kits for women and girls, and mattresses and bedding.

"Israeli airstrikes, ground invasion and continuous expulsion orders are creating a new humanitarian crisis in Lebanon," said Kerri Kennedy, AFSC's Associate General Secretary for International Programs. "To bring an end to the violence we need a permanent cease-fire and an arms embargo on Israel. But we also need to meet the urgent needs of people on the ground. We are raising funds so we can contribute to that effort."

AFSC has been active in the region since 1948, when the organization provided humanitarian aid to refugees in Gaza. Over the last year, AFSC staff in Gaza have provided aid to over a million people, despite frequent displacement and devastating and dangerous conditions. AFSC has worked closely with youth and community partners in Lebanon for years. The emergency relief effort will be focused on supporting those who are the most vulnerable, including Palestinian and Syrian refugees.

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The American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) promotes a world free of violence, inequality, and oppression. Guided by the Quaker belief in the divine light within each person, we nurture the seeds of change and the respect for human life to fundamentally transform our societies and institutions. We work with people and partners worldwide, of all faiths and backgrounds, to meet urgent community needs, challenge injustice, and build peace.