Activists of Lebanese origin in the DC area started organizing relief donations for Beirut, which was rocked by a massive explosion on August 4.
The blast that was caused by the detonation of 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate kept unsafely at the Beirut port for years claimed more than 200 lives, injured around 6,000, and devastated parts of the city, displacing hundreds.
To help out the victims of the tragedy in the Lebanese capital, some local activists are mobilizing the Lebanese community in the area.
DCist put together a list of the local events and restaurant specials planned by these groups.
LiBeirut, one of these groups, is collecting medical and hygienic supplies, as well as clothing, which will be shipped to the Lebanese Red Cross and Lebanon-based non-profit Arcenciel.
They will hold a supplies drop-off on Saturday, August 15 from 11 am – 3 pm at Our Lady of Lebanon Church, 7142 Alaska Ave NW.
Beitna, a fundraiser organized by the chefs of Maydan and Compass Rose, and Asmar’s Mediterranean Foods, aims at sending money to the Lebanese Red Cross and Impact Lebanon by selling special dishes at some local restaurants.
Among the participant restaurants are Maydan at 1346 Florida Ave NW, Compass Rose at 1346 T Street NW, Korean restaurant Anju at 1805 18th Street NW, and many others.