Lebanon Launches Emergency Cash Aid for Families of Children with Disabilities Amid Conflict

Officials said the programme may be expanded to reach more families with persons with disabilities, depending on how the conflict evolves and on the availability of additional funding.

Lebanon’s Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA), in partnership with UNICEF and the International Labour Organization (ILO), has announced emergency financial assistance for families of children and persons with disabilities affected by the ongoing conflict.

The initiative will provide a one-off cash payment of USD 100 to around 6,000 families with children with disabilities living in conflict-affected areas, offering immediate relief to households facing displacement, rising living costs and loss of income.

Emergency Assistance to Reach Thousands

The support will target families with children with disabilities aged 0 to 19 years (born between 2007 and 2026) who are already enrolled in Lebanon’s National Disability Allowance (NDA) programme.

In total, the assistance is expected to benefit approximately 24,000 individuals.

Officials said the programme may be expanded to reach more families with persons with disabilities, depending on how the conflict evolves and on the availability of additional funding.

Government Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive Social Protection

Lebanon’s Minister of Social Affairs, Haneen Sayyed, said the emergency assistance reflects the government’s broader commitment to protecting vulnerable groups and strengthening inclusive social protection systems.

“Supporting persons with disabilities is a cornerstone of the Ministry of Social Affairs’ vision to build an inclusive social protection system based on justice and equality,” Sayyed said.

“In light of the current crisis and the additional pressures it places on the most vulnerable families, we reaffirm our commitment to strengthening social protection programmes that safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities.”

She also emphasised the importance of international cooperation in responding to the crisis.

“Partnership and solidarity are what enable us to expand the response, reach those most in need, and ensure that no one is left outside the social protection system.”

Early Payment of Disability Allowances

Alongside the emergency grant, authorities have advanced the regular National Disability Allowance payments for all 34,000 persons with disabilities enrolled in the programme.

The early payment aims to help families cope with rising costs and additional challenges caused by displacement and insecurity.

Strengthening National Systems During Crisis

The intervention forms part of the emergency response mechanism of the National Disability Allowance programme, Lebanon’s national social assistance scheme for persons with disabilities.

The programme is implemented by the Ministry of Social Affairs with support from UNICEF and the ILO, and funding from the Lebanese government and European partners.

According to Marcoluigi Corsi, UNICEF Representative in Lebanon, strengthening national social protection systems is critical during emergencies.

“In times of crisis, children and persons with disabilities are often among the most vulnerable, as families face displacement, loss of income, and the additional costs associated with disability,” Corsi said.

“Strengthening these systems is essential to ensure that vulnerable families receive timely and reliable support when they need it most.”

Long-Term Commitment to Inclusive Support

Ruba Jaradat, ILO Regional Director for Arab States, said the organization remains committed to supporting Lebanon’s efforts to build an inclusive and resilient social protection system.

“For years, the ILO has worked hand in hand with the Government of Lebanon and its partners to build an inclusive and sustainable social protection system that can contain crises,” Jaradat said.

“At a time when the country is facing profound challenges, the ILO remains firmly committed to ensuring that the National Disability Allowance continues to reach and support those most in need.”

National Disability Allowance Programme

Launched in April 2023, the National Disability Allowance (NDA) provides regular cash assistance to persons with disabilities through Lebanon’s national social protection framework.

Since its establishment, the programme has supported thousands of beneficiaries with predictable financial assistance while also facilitating access to:

• healthcare services

• education opportunities

• protection and social services

• livelihood and employment support

The programme aims to reduce barriers and empower persons with disabilities, ensuring they can participate fully in society and shape their own futures.

The new emergency response builds on previous interventions implemented during Lebanon’s 2024 hostilities, demonstrating the importance of adaptable national systems capable of scaling up support during crises.