In rapid response to the devastating Beirut chemical explosion that shook the city on August 4th, volunteers have geared up to work harder than ever to help restore life to the torn down neighborhoods.
Among those altruistically offering their help is the Lebanese non-profit association Bassma (meaning smile).
Founded in 2002, Bassma has been working towards social development with a mission to unconditionally empower deprived families and help them become self-sufficient.
After the August 4 blast, Bassma found itself in the perfect position to provide assistance at a professional level.
Equipped with a team of architects, engineers, contractors, handymen, site investigators, social workers, volunteers, and other dedicated professionals, Bassma was able to rehabilitate many homes destroyed by the blast and restore them back to safety for the families affected.
“To date, we have finalized the rehabilitation of 11 buildings, 124 houses, having 47 houses in progress, and 358 assessed and upcoming,” said Moni Mahrouk, the Marketing Manager at Bassma.
“The houses are totally refurbished by Bassma including, windows, doors, internal works, structure walls, ceilings, home appliances, and furniture,” she added.
Bassma is committed to its own tagline “Draw A Smile” and bringing smiles back to the once vibrant Beirut.
The association works with families in need to improve living standards, fight hunger, ensure basic education, provide access to healthcare, give access to decent housing, offer employment opportunities, and develop people’s skills, among other needed services.
Like all other NGOs in Lebanon today, Bassma has to rely on people of goodwill to continue with its amazing mission, and now more than ever. Those wishing to contribute or help out can do so by visiting here.