More than just money
Under a project funded by the Lebanon Humanitarian Fund (LHF), World Vision Lebanon, in partnership with Hadatha as a sub-implementing partner, launched a Cash for Education programme in December 2023, set to run for eight months. Under this programme, each caregiver of students enrolled receives $20 to cover educational expenses such as transportation and school supplies.
In addition to the financial assistance, World Vision Lebanon conducted awareness campaigns about the importance of education through retention support programme, unlock literacy sessions, positive parenting sessions and SMS communications messages to highlight the significance of education and the value of continuous learning.
Clothes and stationery for happy children
Abed Al Karim, a Lebanese father, had struggled financially to provide quality education for his children, Hanan, 11, and Mohamad, nine, despite their eagerness to learn. The US$20 monthly assistance has now enabled him to afford most of the school supplies they need. Abed al Karim used the money to purchase notebooks and pencils, simple tools that have transformed blank pages into canvases of imagination for their children.
"I am happy that I could get Hanan the copybooks and pencils she needs. This US$20 is essential for my children so I can provide for their minimal educational needs, especially during the hard economic situation we are going through," said Abed al Karim, the father of Hanan and Mohamad. “I've got three copybooks, each in a different color! I'm so glad to have this collection.” added Hanan happily.
"I still remember when my son Mohamad asked me for new clothes for school. I told him it’s a bit hard to get them now since I don’t have money. He slept crying that night. That's why I got him a new shirt and pants with the first US$20 I received from this programme," added Abed al Karim.
Private tutor for Alaa’s educational Journey
Marwa, a refugee mother from Syria who left her hometown seven years ago, faced similar struggles to Abed al Karim. Her 10-year-old daughter, Alaa, has some learning difficulties in school, which is why the US$20 has been super beneficial for her mother to afford an afterschool support.
"I am illiterate; I cannot help Marwa in her school studies, and I want her to learn and become educated as much as possible. That's why this money is becoming a very essential amount for my daughter Alaa," said Marwa, Alaa's mother.
Marwa emphasised the importance of education to her daughter and how it is the key to everything. "Alaa is now better in her studies, and she showed significant improvement at school. Without this $20, I wouldn't be able to get her as afterschool support. That's why I am really thankful for this monthly payment," added Marwa, Alaa’s mother.
While $20 per month may seem modest, it brings hope to 267 families working towards a better educational future for their children.