Community charities launch Beirut emergency appeals after blast

The UK fundraising arm of Israel’s Magen David Adom (MDA UK) and the humanitarian agency World Jewish Relief have launched emergency appeals to support Beirut in the aftermath of the deadly blast.

The explosion claimed the lives of more than 150 people and injured over 6,000, according to Reuters, causing extensive damage to parts of Lebanon’s port city.

MDA UK is now raising £70,000 to bring pharmaceutical supplies to the city with help from the charity International Health Partners (IHP), which has a local partner affected by the blast.

Daniel Burger, chief executive of MDA UK, said Israel’s emergency service “has a long and proud history of sending aid in times of emergency to countries that need it.”

“Even when Israel cannot be directly involved, MDA UK is well-placed to help save more lives,” he added.

Meanwhile, World Jewish Relief is appealing for donations to fund shelter materials, accommodation support and repairs, as well as cooking materials, kitchen sets, blankets, mattresses, as well as hygiene and sanitary items.

“Our Jewish values obligate us to reach out and offer our assistance and demonstrate an immense act of kindness,” said Chief executive Paul Anticoni.

“These are people have lost everything and we as a Jewish community can help in their hour of need,” he added.

You can donate online on www.worldjewishrelief.org/Beirut or by phone on 0208 7361250.  To support MDA UK’s appeal, visit www.mdauk.org/lebanonaid.