Humanitarian Coalition

Published purpose

On August 4, 2020, a massive explosion occurred in Lebanon’s capital, Beirut, killing at least 180 people and injuring over 6,500. The explosion took place in the city’s port, which is the largest in the country and the main point of entry for all of Lebanon’s imports, including food and other basic items. The explosion has led to significant disruptions and damage to infrastructure in the Beirut area. The event occurred while Lebanon was already facing a multi-faceted crisis and vulnerable people having limited coping capacities. Priority needs include food assistance, multi-purpose cash and healthcare. An effective and timely humanitarian assistance response is essential to address the immediate life-saving needs of the affected people. In order to respond to this crisis, Global Affairs Canada launched the Lebanon Matching Fund in partnership with the Humanitarian Coalition and its members. Through this mechanism, the Government of Canada is matching the eligible donations made to the Humanitarian Coalition and its members, up to $8 million. The funds are used by Humanitarian Coalition members to deliver life-saving assistance to those most in need such as emergency food, cash, health, protection, shelter, and water, sanitation and hygiene services.