More than 130 people were killed and over 5,000 injured in a deadly explosion in Beirut, Lebanon on Tuesday. The cause of the explosion has not yet been determined by Beirut Governor Marwan Abboud. Nevertheless, authorities say that 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate (an explosive substance) stored at the Port of Beirut for the past six years may have been the source. [A cab driver told The New York Times (open in new tab) of the incident, "You wouldn't think it was an explosion. It's like a missile raining down."

This disaster comes at an already difficult time for Lebanon. Lebanon is already heading toward financial ruin as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, with many people losing their jobs, having little or no savings, and struggling to make ends meet. (Opens in new tab) According to the AP (opens in new tab), losses from the explosion are estimated at $10 billion to $15 billion, and nearly 300,000 people have been displaced from their homes. If you have the means to donate, please consider giving to the following organizations.

The Lebanese Red Cross (opens in new tab) is the main provider of free ambulance service in Lebanon. Its volunteers respond to more than 140,000 emergencies and patient transports annually.

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Lebanon Needs (opens in new tab) helps provide and pay for medical care for many impoverished and underserved citizens. It is currently helping more than 150 patients pay for their medications.

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Beautiful People Lebanon (opens in new tab) They make over 100 meals a day for local families in need in Lebanon.

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The LIFE'S Emergency Relief Fund (opens in new tab) Donate to help families living under the poverty line survive and help other local non-profit organizations thrive.

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Impact Lebanon (opens in new tab) is a non-profit organization that sets up disaster relief funds and donates to organizations in need of financial assistance.

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A global organization (opens in new tab) that works to ensure the safety and health of children around the world and provides needed supplies to children and families in Beirut in need.

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Offre Joie (opens in new tab) cleans and restores homes damaged by the blasts, while providing shelter to those who have lost their homes.

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This charity (opens in new tab) fights hunger and helps provide food to those in need.

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