A community-based safe space empowering children, youth and families through education, psychosocial support, protection and life-skills development in one of Lebanon’s most vulnerable areas.
What We Do?
Hay El Sellom, located in the southern suburb of Beirut within the administrative region of Mount Lebanon, is one of the most vulnerable areas in Lebanon and hosts approximately 10,000 Syrian refugees and 20,000 Lebanese residents.
Amel Association International has been operating in the area since 1980 through its development center. More recently, the center has become home to a Makani Center established in partnership with UNICEF.
Makani, meaning “My Space” in Arabic, is a community-based safe space that provides integrated educational, psychosocial and protection services for children and families affected by displacement, poverty and marginalization.
Education & Learning Recovery
Makani offers in-person learning, catch-up classes and educational support programmes designed to help children continue their education journey.
Through the Retention Support (RS) programme, children from grades 1 to 9 receive tailored learning support, catch-up sessions and individualized recovery plans to bridge learning gaps and remain enrolled in school.
Psychosocial Support & Protection
The center provides psychosocial support, safe recreational spaces and protection services for children facing the consequences of displacement, poverty and social exclusion.
Activities create a secure and supportive environment where children can connect, heal, play and rebuild confidence.
Digital Learning & Life Skills
Through digital hubs and internet access, children and youth are supported with educational technology, online learning opportunities and life-skills development.
Programmes include sports, communication skills, teamwork and youth empowerment activities that strengthen resilience and social inclusion.
Support for Families & Caregivers
Makani also supports parents and caregivers through parenting guidance, early childhood development programmes and referrals to specialized services whenever needed.
This holistic approach ensures that entire families benefit from the center’s support and protection environment.
A Safe Space for Every Child
Makani goes beyond traditional education programmes. It creates a holistic, inclusive and child-friendly environment where vulnerable children can learn, recover, express themselves and develop essential social and emotional skills.
By combining education, psychosocial support, protection services and family engagement under one roof, the center contributes to strengthening resilience and preventing child labor, exploitation and school dropout.
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