BEIRUT — Minister of Social Affairs Hanine El-Sayed announced measures on Monday to support people with disabilities displaced by the ongoing crisis, as severe weather conditions created challenges in several shelter centers across the country.
Speaking at a press conference at the Grand Serail alongside the Director General of Sports Facilities , Dr. Naji Hammoud, Minister El-Sayed said some shelters faced difficulties due to the weather, including the Sports City complex in Beirut, which is currently hosting displaced families.
The minister emphasized that people with disabilities face additional challenges during displacement and require tailored support rather than a one-size-fits-all response.
As part of the government’s measures, the Ministry of Social Affairs decided to extend the validity of disability cards that were set to expire on March 1 until April 15.
The decision applies to all cardholders to ensure that beneficiaries continue to access essential services, including hospitalization covered by the Ministry of Public Health during the current crisis.
Minister El-Sayed said the ministry is also working to secure more suitable shelter options for displaced people with disabilities. In coordination with several organizations such as Islamic Orphanages, Al-Kafa’at, Al-Mabarrat Charitable Association, Al-Imdad and Friends of the Disabled, more than 600 people with disabilities and their families have already been hosted.
Additionally, 613 individuals with disabilities and their families are currently receiving support within shelter centers.
The ministry is holding ongoing coordination meetings with partner organizations to better assess needs and strengthen the response. Specialized institutions, such as Rahma Center in Tripoli and the North Autism Center, are also providing additional services.
Minister El-Sayed added that she visited several shelters in Beirut earlier in the day and held a meeting with 225 social workers from the ministry, praising their efforts and stressing that their fieldwork remains essential to the country’s humanitarian response.
