The Singapore Red Cross (SRC) will donate S$50,000 towards relief efforts organised by the Lebanese Red Cross (LRC), in response to the recent explosion that hit the city on August 4.
A press release by the SRC added that it was monitoring the situation and that if needed, it will increase its support for the LRC's efforts.
In extending his condolences to the Lebanese public and highlighting the challenge of the crisis amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, the Secretary-General and CEO of SRC, Benjamin William, stated:
"Our sincere and heartfelt condolences to the people of Lebanon and to the families of those who were injured or lost their lives in this tragedy. These are very difficult and challenging times as the world continues to fight the Covid-19 pandemic. The Singapore Red Cross will work closely with the Lebanese Red Cross and stands ready to support its efforts to assist those affected by the tragedy.”
Blast has disrupted medical services
William further highlighted that the blast had also disrupted medical services within Beirut and that there was a critical need to help ensure their resumption.
He added:
"The blasts have affected thousands and disrupted the provision of critical services, such medical services, made all the more urgent due to the pandemic. It is critical that we all come together to extend whatever support we can to enhance the relief operations. This will also help facilitate a quick resumption of essential medical services.”
The Jakarta Post reported that at least one hospital, the St. George's Hospital, had been so badly damaged that it was no longer in service.
The blast had caused the hospital's ceilings to collapse, covered beds in glass, left electrical wires hanging overhead and wounded hospital staff.
The hospital's chief of staff, Eid Azar, stated that a hospital evacuation had to be undertaken.
This included 20 patients being treated for Covid-19.
Thus far, the death toll reported has reached at least 135, CNN reported.
Should you wish to donate to relief efforts, here are some organisations through which you can do so:
Top image collage from Singapore Red Cross Facebook and Tobias Scheneider/Twitter