Sydney: Anglican Aid CEO Tim Swan has vowed to provide support for victims of the Beirut blast through trusted Christian partners in Lebanon, following the resignation of Lebanon’s Prime Minister-designate Mustapha Adib.

Mr Adib’s failure to form government has impeded the delivery of international aid from France and others to Lebanon. “It is indispensable to have a government capable of receiving international aid,” said a French government official according to news reports.

Tim Swan says, “While I am dismayed to learn that political stability has been delayed for our Lebanese brothers and sisters, this setback will not prevent us from providing what help we can for those affected by the August 4 explosion.

“By partnering with the existing network of local churches, who provide assistance for believers and non-believers alike, Anglican Aid has been able to effectively care for those suffering in the aftermath of the blast.”

Anglican Aid has been working with the Lebanese Society for Educational and Social Development (LSESD), to allow churches in Beirut to distribute meals, essential supplies like clothes and toothbrushes to those who have lost their homes, and care packages of toys and activities for children.

Anglican Aid is also supporting long-term relief to help those who find themselves without homes due to the tragedy, such as rehabilitating buildings, preparing for the coming winter, and providing sanitation facilities to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Importantly, these relief activities are being run by church groups on the ground in Beirut, who are carrying on with the business of caring for the vulnerable in the absence of a new government.

Thanks to the generosity of Australian Christians, Anglican Aid has raised over $61,000 for the victims of the Beirut blast.