Mississauga—The Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) has granted half a million dollars to World Vision Canada to support the organization's relief and recovery efforts in southern Lebanon. 

"This CIDA grant will allow us to rehabilitate damaged water sources in approximately 12 villages in southern Lebanon, and implement a potable water program that will benefit over 25,000 persons," said Dave Toycen, president of World Vision Canada. "The project will also increase our ability to meet the most immediate basic human needs as well as maintain the health, privacy and dignity of conflict-affected people."

In the first 30 days of the conflict, World Vision assisted more than 40,000 people with food, non-food items, water, and medicine. The organization also set up three 'child-friendly spaces' in Beirut to help children recover from trauma by providing a normalized routine and atmosphere.  World Vision was the first non-governmental organization (NGO) to respond to the crisis in the South (Marjeyoun, Bent Jbeil Caza and in the East Sidon area), Bekaa, and Beirut (specifically in Ain El Remaneh and Burj Hammoud areas) with the provision of food items.

On August 24, World Vision sent over 1.27 metric tonnes of medical supplies, providing antibiotics, pain killers, sutures and bandages to public health clinics in southern Beirut, the Bekaa Valley in the east and south Lebanon.  

World Vision began its work in Lebanon in 1975, providing children's education and emergency relief during the years of war. More recently, child-focused Area Development Programs (ADPs) became World Vision's primary approach in conducting development activities. World Vision Lebanon currently operates in nine Area Development Programs, including 50 communities.

Canadians wishing to contribute to World Vision's relief efforts in Lebanon can call 1-800-268-5528 or click here.  

World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization whose purpose is to create lasting change in the lives of children, families and communities by overcoming poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender. For more information, please visit www.worldvision.ca