About Us
Basmeh & Zeitooneh started as a grassroots organization in 2012 when a group of volunteers in Lebanon—driven by the plight of Syrian refugees—began a small relief operation. Today, Basmeh & Zeitooneh has grown into one of the largest and most established refugee-led relief organizations in the world, responding to the acute needs of both the displaced and their host communities.
What We Do
Our journey began in 2012, when five volunteers started working to serve Syrian refugees residing in Shatila camp in Beirut. The main goal of these visits was to assess the needs and to fill the gaps left by other aid agencies. This effort has since developed into the establishment of an NGO that runs six community centers in Lebanon and two in Turkey.
Impact Numbers
Total Cash for Work participants
2019 - 2024
Total Number of Students
since 2015
Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Supported
since 2018
Small & Medium Enterprises Supported (SMEs)
2018 - 2024
Legal Protection Services
People Reached
Households & Individuals Reached
EmergencySupport
Latest News and Events
Protracted Displacement Economies: Breaking Barriers Through Music
Breaking Barriers Through Music: The Inspiring Story of Abed The story of a refugee is often a heart-wrenching tale filled
Solidarity for Lebanon: Urgent Response to Displacement and Crisis
Standing Together: Basmeh & Zeitooneh’s Response to the Crisis in Lebanon As Lebanon faces one of the most difficult times
Restoring Hope: Mona’s Story of Loss, Strength, and Compassion
In the aftermath of destruction, it’s not uncommon to question everything that once felt secure. "Where am I?" These
Nesreen’s Story (Alias): A Journey of Loss, Resilience, and Hope Amidst War
Nesreen’s life has been shattered by the brutal realities of war, a journey marked by endless displacement, overwhelming loss, and
