On Tuesday 4th August the people of Beirut’s lives changed forever. An explosion, the third largest the world has ever seen, tore through much of the port area reducing most of its buildings (homes, shops and businesses) to rubble.

300,000 people are now homeless, many of whom were already starving and living difficult lives in poverty. Suddenly, even the most basic comfort of a roof over their heads was ripped away from them.

Donations towards re-building permanent homes rather than temporary shelters are still desperately lacking, especially with news coverage moving away from the situation.

The funds raised from this page will be donated directly to trusted NGOs in Beirut, ensuring that the money is used ethically and efficiently. At the moment we are working with LIVELOVEBEIRUT and OffreJoie. These organisations are on the ground in Beirut, assessing and reassessing, daily, what is most urgently needed. They are already taking action; rebuilding homes, replacing plastic sheeting with walls, electricity, running water and beds. As time passes we will add other organisations to this list.

Our hope is that we as individuals and as part of a wider community, a global and interconnected community - come together to show our support and bring hope to the people of Beirut, reassuring them that they are not alone. By helping those who have lost everything, their homes, possessions, and in some cases loved ones, we aim to spread hope and love through one simple action - our donations.

Of course, every donation is greatly appreciated, and collectively will make great change, but please donate with your heart – you can type any amount into the box below the suggested amounts. Let's be "Lebanesely" Generous :) :) :)

As some idea of what your donations can help rebuild: A home in need of complete restructuring (around 6,400 homes) costs £12,000 to rebuild. Homes that need structural support (over 3,000 homes) and general repairs cost £6,000-£8,000 to rebuild. Families whose homes need doors and windows replaced will need £2,500-£4,000 to cover the costs.

Please help support the people of Beirut rebuild their homes by donating and sharing this page as widely as you can.

We started this initiative with a group of friends we invited to explore Lebanon to share the many under-appreciated treasures that characterise Lebanon. Victoria and Charles Spicer; Diana, Peter, Zsuzsa and Eva Magyar; Elena Bowes; Cristina Escallon; Rodrigo Dauster; Sarah and Frederic Sorrentino quickly fell in love with Lebanon's undeniable charm and after watching the immense suffering the country has endured since our visit together, we want to do all we can to help.