Within its first phase of implementation, the “Food for Assets” project implemented by the Lebanese Organization for Studies and Training (LOST) in partnership with the World Food Program (WFP) has had a remarkable impact already. Going beyond developing the agricultural sector in Baalbeck-Hermel and supporting the vulnerable, this project has supported in creating a more coherent civil society by shattering traditional nationality and gender roles and stereotypes.
Investing in the minds and characters was the ultimate perpetual impact. Being co-workers, and having to work in groups with each other, Lebanese and Syrian refugees showed increased willingness to interact, communicate, and socialize with one another. In times of an unstable security situation, economic recession, and social problems, this project changed the perception that Lebanese and Syrians cannot get along. Many friendships were built, participants had breakfast and lunch together on site, and their relations improved outside the site too.
Wadha, a Syrian participant stated, “I never had a Lebanese friend. During the implementation of this project, I got to know many other Lebanese women, and it turned out that they are very friendly and we all share the same responsibilities and concerns”.
Women participating in the construction activities realized how tiring and hard it is for men to do such work. Experiencing and working hand in hand with men made women appreciate and value what men and their husbands in particular go through and endure. Naziha, a female participant stated, “now I sympathize more with my husband, I can tell how huge the effort is he is doing to support the family. The bond between us is getting stronger than ever, we are supporting each other and waking up every day for a bigger goal”.
By believing in women’s ability and productivity, their self-confidence and characters skyrocketed. Saria explained, “this work is increasing my self-confidence. I now feel that I have many big roles other than being a mere housewife”.
Moreover, women have surprised their male co-workers with their dedication and ability to work in construction. Men stereotypically believed that women are incapable of exerting big physical effort, nor do they have the power of resilience in a workplace. This project has revealed the power of women and urged men to accept women as a real contributing and effective economic partner. “I have refused the idea of my wife working for years, but after seeing the women working on site, I think I will change my mind”, Rida said.
