CARE International’s history in Lebanon
CARE began working in Lebanon in 2006, supporting communities affected by conflict. Early efforts focused on providing humanitarian aid through Lebanese partner organizations.
In 2013, CARE opened an office in the country to help address the growing needs of Syrian refugees and the Lebanese communities hosting them. Refugees made up nearly a quarter of the population. Most of these families were living in precarious settlements, with few opportunities to earn any income.
CARE has also responded to other major emergencies in the country, including the devastating explosions in Beirut’s port in August 2020. The disaster left large parts of the city damaged and thousands of families displaced.
Over time, our work in Lebanon has expanded to support both refugees and host communities to meet urgent and long-term needs.
CARE and partners’ work in Lebanon today
CARE and our partners work with refugees and Lebanese communities to respond to humanitarian needs while supporting longer-term stability and livelihoods. This includes helping people live through recurring cycles of violence, as the Middle East conflict started in February 2026. Our work focuses on:
Crisis response
CARE provides humanitarian aid to families affected by conflict and displacement. This includes distributing food, water, hygiene supplies, and other essential items to people forced to leave their homes.
Food and water
We work with local authorities and communities to improve access to safe water and sanitation services for refugees and host communities.
Health
CARE supports access to essential health services and provides information and support to help families protect their health and wellbeing during crises.
Making the economy work
We support livelihood opportunities and income generation for refugees and host communities, helping families strengthen economic independence and rebuild their lives.
CARE works closely with Lebanese organizations, municipalities, and community groups to ensure programs respond to local needs. These partners include Nusaned, Female, the Georges N. Frem Foundation, among many others.
Focus on women and girls
Women and girls are at the centre of CARE’s work in Lebanon.
CARE works with communities to reduce risks of violence against women and girls and ensure women have access to services, protection, and economic opportunities.
CARE and our partners support women and girls to:
- Access protection services and safe spaces
- Improve access to health services and information
- Strengthen economic opportunities and livelihoods
- Continue education and skills development
By supporting women and girls, we help strengthen resilience for families and communities across Lebanon.
For recent updates on CARE Lebanon’s work, see here.
