2016 LB051 Sports and Humanitarian Assistance Phase I (SAHA I)

Conflict and Consequences <p></p> The massive influx of Syrian refugees during the past years has affected the delicate social balance in Lebanon, putting pressure on refugee and host communities alike. <p></p> Particularly alarming is the situation faced by Syrian and Lebanese adolescents, who represent close to 50 per cent of the affected population in Lebanon. Tensions within and between communities vying for increasingly scarce resources have been exacerbated, leading to polarization and the increasing isolation of refugee communities who, along with the most vulnerable Lebanese populations, find it problematic to access essential services. Making matters worse, tens of thousands of boys and girls are increasingly involved in worst forms of child labour and exploitation. As the crisis continues, this situation is worsening. <p></p> Project Target<p></p> Overall Objective: Vulnerable boys and girls are protected from violence, exploitation, abuse and neglect through equitable access to quality child protection services. <p></p> Sub objectives: <p></p> Strengthen relations between the refugee and host communities using football as an entry point to engage communities while providing children and young people with a healthy outlet during their free time; <p></p> Provide life skills and psychosocial support to Lebanese and non Lebanese youth, using football as an entry point; <p></p> Better protect children from abuse, violence, and exploitation by raising awareness within communities and by building the capacity of local actors involved in the child protection system. <p></p> Project Design<p></p> Outcome 1: Vulnerabilities of adolescent boys and girls are reduced and their resilience strengthened through community based sports, life skills and other community based activities. <p></p> Outcome 2: Access to safe inclusive spaces is secured. <p></p> Outcome 3: Child Protection systems are strengthened on a local level. <p></p> Outcome 4: Child rights are addressed through community based action and advocacy. <p></p> Project Activities<p></p> The basic approach will be the same in all locations; using football as an entry point to engage community members of different ages, highlight issues relevant to the well being and protection of children, and harness the participation of children and young people in designing their own activities and events to improve their communities. Sport, particularly football, is the driving force behind this change. <p></p>