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The ChallengeThe current financial and economic crisis in Lebanon has significantly deepened disparities among the population, with an increase in individuals and households falling under the poverty line. With the devaluation of the Lebanese pound against the dollar, people’s purchasing power took a plunge.From the beginning of the economic crisis in 2019 to this day, the pound, once at a rate of 1500 LBP, fluctuated on daily basis, reaching the highest rate recorded on March 2023 of 140 000 against the dollar on the black market. Many families have reported that due to lack of income, spending on healthcare and any form of medical attention has been foregone. Additionally, the fuel crisis led to a major transportation challenge in accessing healthcare facilities.This has placed a large portion of the population at significant risk, especially during a global pandemic (WFP, 2020). Families have to focus on their food security before seeking medical attention. Many primary healthcare centers have opened, several form part of the Ministry’s network, but the increasing demand demonstrates the need to increase access to affordable healthcare during these times of crisis, unemployment, and lack of opportunitiesWATAD’s ResponseWATAD Association established a licensed healthcare center in 2021 in Tripoli (North Lebanon) that offers high-quality healthcare services to all vulnerable groups regardless of gender or nationality. This dispensary, Nozha Medical Center (NMC), which is in the process of being updgarded to a primary healthcare center, will increase access to necessary healthcare for vulnerable individuals from low-income communities.The PHC will be equipped to serve over 3,000 patients every month, covering a wide spectrum of medical consultations with a particular focus on the availability of obstetrics-gynecological and pediatric services to increase access for women, mothers, and children. It is fundamental for this center to provide low-cost care, particularly as the economic crisis in Lebanon is worsening.Currently, Nozha Medical center is hosting patients for free-of-charge medical services including medical consultations at the general medicine and the pediatrics clinics, routine vaccinations, nurse acts, &amp; providing free medication upon availability. NMC also provided free Cholera vaccines in collaboration with MEDAIR during the cholera outbreak in 2022.ObjectiveTo improve availability and access to high-quality healthcare services for a minimum of 3000 patients residing in Tripoli on a monthly basis.This goal reflects the national priority to provide basic health services to individuals, families, and communities that have been deeply impacted by years of economic decline and regional political instability.This objective also localizes Sustainable Development Goal #3 – Good health and well-being, bringing the global movement for life-saving solutions in health to populations in need in Lebanon.

Nozha Medical Center, located in Al Chok area, Abou Samra, is a free healthcare facility established by WATAD in 2021. It offers high-quality medical consultations in general medicine and pediatrics, routine vaccinations, and medication when available. It serves an overpopulated, vulnerable community with limited access to healthcare services.

Al Nozha Medical Center, established in 2021

WATAD, as a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the livelihoods of vulnerable individuals and communities in Lebanon, understands the critical role vocational training plays in creating sustainable economic opportunities. With the ongoing economic crisis in Lebanon and the increased vulnerability of the population, providing sources of income has become more important than ever. This is why WATAD developped several vocational training projects in order to provide income-generating opportunities for the vulnerable communitiesWATAD executed a range of vocational training courses in fields such as executive secretary, security guard, elderly care and other healthcare services. WATAD also have partnered with Mercy Corps under 3AMALY project funded by the Canadian Government and implemented 3 vocational trainings both in in-person and online modules for over 100 trainees located in Tripoli, Saida and Lower Chouf. Each course is designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to enter the workforce and earn a living. WATAD offers both in-person and online training modules to ensure maximum accessibility for all participants.The importance of vocational training under the livelihoods sector lies in its sustainable impact. By equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to earn a living, they are able to support themselves and their families in the long-term, reducing their reliance on aid and creating a sense of self-sufficiency. Moreover, this creates a ripple effect within the community as individuals who have completed vocational training are more likely to invest back in their community and contribute to its growth.WATAD&#x27;s vocational training courses have already made a significant impact. To date, over 1000 trainees have benefited from the training programs, with 35% of graduates able to secure employment within their respective fields. This success was achieved in collaboration with local partners such as LEAD Healthcare Consultancy and international partners such as Mercy Corps and Life Project 4 Youth. . This not only provides individuals with much-needed income but also contributes to the wider economy by creating new jobs and filling necessary roles in various industries.

In partnership with Mercy Corps, WATAD carried out a comprehensive vocational training program consisting of both online and in-person modules. This program catered to a total of 200 trainees and was conducted in Tripoli, Saida, and Lower Chouf. The training modules covered a range of subjects, including Executive Secretary, Security Guard, and Sanitization and Pest Control. Remarkably, WATAD achieved a successful employment rate of 35% for the trainees.

Vocational Training

WATAD serves a wide spectrum of the population from all segments of society regardless of their socio economic, political or religious backgrounds.

Watad Association

Collaboration with Mercy Corps

Beneficiaries received help during crisis situations

crisis situations

Participants attended vocational trainings

vocational trainings attend

Individuals were targeted so far under our health program

WatadAssociation

OUR NUMBERS

Al Nozha Medical Center, established in 2021

Vocational Training