In response to the urgent and growing needs of children affected by the war in Lebanon, the Ministry of Public Health, in partnership with UNICEF, is launching the "Assistance & Care for War-Wounded and Affected Children (ACWA)" Programme. Implemented in collaboration with the International Network for Aid, Relief, and Assistance (INARA) and The Ghassan Abu Sittah Children's Fund (GASCF), this initiative aims to provide comprehensive healthcare and protection services to children impacted by the latest war on Lebanon.
Minister of Public Health, Dr Rakan Nassereddine said: "In the face of unimaginable hardship, our children's resilience remains our nation's most precious asset. The 'Assistance & Care for War-Wounded and Affected Children (ACWA)' Programme, forged in partnership with UNICEF, INARA, and the Ghassan Abu Sittah Children's Fund, is a testament to our unwavering commitment to safeguarding their health and well-being. The children of Lebanon have endured unimaginable suffering. This initiative is a vital step in our unwavering commitment to providing them with the comprehensive healthcare and protection they urgently need. We will ensure that every child affected by this war receives the comprehensive care and support they desperately need to heal and rebuild their future"
The war, which began in October 2023 and escalated in September 2024, has left a devastating impact on children across the country. As of December 2024, the Ministry of Public Health has reported over 4,000 deaths, including 316 children, and nearly 1,500 injured children—many of whom have suffered life-altering injuries such as burns, fractures, and limb loss. These children are in desperate need of specialized medical care, rehabilitation, and psychological support.
"We cannot allow these children to be forgotten. They have already lost too much—family members, homes, their sense of security. Through this lifeline programme, it is our collective responsibility to ensure they do not lose their future" Said Ettie Higgins, UNICEF Deputy representative in Lebanon "This collaboration brings together a synergistic group of partners dedicated to responding effectively to the urgent needs of war-affected children, ensuring their right to healthcare, protection, and a path to recovery" he added.
Dr. Ghassan Abu Sitta said: "An injured child has a growing body, and the injury hinders the child's growth. The goal of the 'ACWA' programme is to implement a comprehensive healing journey—from the moment of injury to reconstructive surgeries, physical rehabilitation, psychological support, and reintegration into society. Whether a child requires a prosthetic limb or educational intervention to mitigate the effects of war, our aim is to provide holistic care."
The ACWA programme takes a holistic approach to addressing children's physical, emotional, and social needs. It aims to provide life-saving medical care, including specialized surgeries and mental health support. Additionally, the programme offers specialized psychosocial support, case management, and referrals to essential services such as physiotherapy, disability aids, and the National Disability Allowance (NDA). The program also strengthens accountability, ensuring compliance with policies that protect children's rights.
The programme will be implemented nationwide, ensuring that the identified children and their families receive the necessary support despite the destruction of health facilities and the existing structural challenges in Lebanon's health and social systems. Caregivers and parents who have children injured during the war, can call the following hotline numbers +961 76 325 928, +961 76835307 to access the needed support.
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