In times of displacement and uncertainty, even the smallest comforts can mean the world.Recognizing the profound need for personal hygiene among families forced to flee their homes, the Rotaract Club of Aley, under the leadership of Community Service Director Karine Ichtay, launched the “Essence of Care”initiative—an act of humanity aimed at restoring dignity and safe guarding health.
On October26th, with the support of Rotaract and the Rotary Lebanon Disaster Relief Committee, the team delivered essential hygiene kits to 109displaced individuals sheltering in Tofel Al Saaid and Fidele,two temporary shelters in the Aley area. These kits were more than basic necessities—they were a symbol of empathy, support, and a commitment to health during some of life’s most difficult moments.
Each hygiene kit was thoughtfully assembled to meet real, everyday needs. Items included paper towels, tissues, toothbrushes and toothpaste for oral hygiene, along side soap, shampoo, dish soap, and sponges for personal and household cleaning. The addition of floor cleaners, bleach, brooms, cloths, and laundry detergents reflected a comprehensive approach to promoting disease prevention and creating cleaner, safer living spaces for families living in uncertainty.
The initiative also directly supports the Rotary Areas of Focus on Disease Prevention and Treatment and Peace building and Conflict Resolution,as it targeted families affected by conflict—those whose lives had been disrupted by violence and instability. By providing these critical resources,the club not only helped protect against illness, but also offered a sense of stability and respect to those in crisis.
The planning behind Essence of Care was swift and strategic. Karine Ichtay and her team first identified the hygiene-related gaps in the shelters, coordinated with school representatives, secured supplier quotes, and then mobilized to ensure timely distribution. With 6 committed members on the ground, the project exemplified how focused action and shared purpose can make a profound difference.
Essence of Care stands as a testament to the club’s enduring commitment to community support in times of crisis. It’s a reminder that service isn’t always about grand gestures—sometimes, it’s about meeting people where they are, with what they need most. By offering cleanliness, comfort, and care, this project continues the club’s mission of Extending Legacies—with compassion, one act of service at a time
