Ambassador Kip Tom visited Beirut, Lebanon in early October to view the damage caused by the massive explosion in Beirut’s port, and assess the humanitarian response.
The United States is working with the World Food Program (WFP) to help meet the food security needs of the most vulnerable communities in Lebanon during these very difficult times.
After visiting the site of the explosion, Ambassador Tom went to the Karantina fire brigade, where WFP distributes cash assistance cards to victims of the explosion.
Vulnerable families can use these cards to buy food at shops like the WFP supported Albalad Supermaket.
Electronic food vouchers & cash transfers have been a lifeline in Lebanon since the blast rocked a population already struggling with a pandemic & economic crisis. Cardholders get about $27 a month to buy food and necessities.
The Ambassador asked Khaled, a Syrian refugee & beneficiary of the cash assistance card, what the future looks like for his kids. In tears, he said “No future.”