FROM STRUGGLE TO STRENGTH GIZ PROJECT

From Struggle to Strength: A Mother's Journey Towards Hope and Empowerment

In the town of Ghazze, Lebanon, lives a courageous woman named Rana. At 22 years old, Rana embodies resilience and determination, navigating the challenges of motherhood in the face of adversity. Married and blessed with a one-year-old son, she carries within her the hopes and dreams of a better future for her child.

Rana's journey took a turn when a nutrition specialist from Action Against Hunger visited her humble home. As the nutrition specialist conducted a routine check-up, she noticed something troubling, Rana's son was beginning to show signs of malnutrition. Understanding the urgency of the situation, the nutrition specialist intervened, providing vital vitamins and essential nutrition to support the child's development. Moreover, recognizing the underlying needs of Rana's family, she promptly registered for much-needed cash assistance.

Rana said, "I was worried when the nutrition specialist conducted the MUAC test, and the result was not good." The realization that her child's health was at risk, pushed her with determination to find a solution. Up until that point, Rana had relied solely on milk to feed her six-month-old son. She lacked the knowledge and resources to diversify his diet, since food was scarce. However, with the intervention of the nutrition specialist, Rana received much-needed financial support and invaluable nutrition awareness sessions.

With cash assistance in hand, Rana wasted no time in purchasing essential food items for her son and their household. The harsh winter in this region, combined with limited job opportunities, made it even more challenging for families like Rana's to make ends meet. However, the support provided over the span of 6 months, ensured that they could weather the storm and provide nourishment and warmth for their loved ones. Recognizing the transformative impact of her experience, Rana shared her newfound knowledge with other mothers in her community.

Through her own perseverance and the guidance of Action Against Hunger, she became an advocate for proper nutrition, educating mothers about the significance of a balanced diet for their children's growth and well-being. She shared and spread the information she obtained whenever she met other mothers over coffee or during visits. Rana said, "After my experience and the difference it made in our lives, I realized that these kinds of interventions are crucial for our society."

Rana understands the weight of motherhood, constantly questioning herself, fearing that she may make mistakes or miss crucial aspects of her child's development. Nevertheless, she remains persistent in her determination to provide the best life possible for her son. Her deepest wish is for him to live a happy and fulfilling life, free from the hardships she has endured. Above all, Rana dreams of her son receiving an education, knowing that knowledge is the key to unlocking a brighter future.

Rana's story serves as an inspiration to us all, showcasing the strength and resilience that exists within mothers facing unimaginable challenges. Action Against Hunger remains committed to empowering mothers like Rana, providing them with the necessary tools and support to nurture their children's growth and well-being. Through awareness campaigns, nutritional interventions, and assistance, we strive to create a world where no child suffers from malnutrition and every mother's dreams for her child become a reality.

This project “Strengthening food security and nutrition during winter stresses for the most vulnerable households in Bekaa Governate, Kab Elias, Bar Elias, Ghazze and Joub Jannine” is implemented by by Action Against Hunger in Lebanon in collaboration with the Danish Refugee Council, and in partnership with GIZ under the framework of the ACE project commissioned by Germany.