In the world of humanitarian work, there is often a “hierarchy of needs” that people use to judge others. Food and water sit at the bottom, the absolute essentials. But what happens to the spirit when the body is fed but the mind is left in the dark?
On November 29, 2024, our team, usually found advocating for those with four legs and fur, decided to step outside our typical mission. While there are over 11,600 registered associations in Lebanon focused on human welfare, we couldn’t ignore the 200 displaced children living in the Clemenceau area of Beirut.
We didn’t show up with heavy boxes of rations. We showed up with colors.
The power of a pen
We distributed coloring papers and pens to 200 children who have had their worlds turned upside down. Displacement takes away your home, your bed, and your toys, but it shouldn’t take away your right to be a child.
Art isn’t just “distraction”; it is a tool for:
- Expression: Allowing children to process emotions they can’t yet put into words.
- Normalcy: Providing a sense of routine and play in an unstable environment.
- Cognitive development: Keeping young minds sharp and engaged when school isn’t an option.
Addressing the critics: “Why not food?”
Whenever you do something unconventional, criticism follows. We were asked why we chose coloring supplies over chocolate or sandwiches. It’s a fair question, but here is our perspective:
1. The ecosystem of aid In Lebanon, there are incredible NGOs working tirelessly to provide meals, medicine, and shelter. We aren’t trying to replace them; we are trying to fill the gaps they might miss. While a sandwich feeds a child for an hour, a creative outlet feeds their resilience for much longer.
2. Childhood is more than survival If we only provide “basics,” we are telling these children that their only value is survival. By providing art supplies, we are telling them that their imagination, their joy, and their education matter just as much.
“Education and entertainment are as vital to a child’s well-being as food. A stomach needs to be full, but a heart needs to be light.”
Watch the magic happen
You can’t see the smiles because out of respect we’ve cropped the faces. There is something truly transformative about watching a grey sidewalk or a plain piece of paper turn into a vibrant masterpiece. (article on adoptdontshoplb.org)
Make your own small difference
You don’t need a massive budget or a registered NGO to make a change. Sometimes, it’s as simple as bringing a little bit of color to a corner of your community that has gone dark. Whether you help animals, humans, or the environment, just help. 🌟
