Fundraiser for Lebanon: ‘It gives faith in humanity’

The Arabs Association Rotterdam held a bake sale on Wednesday in the hall of Erasmus Sport. The fundraiser was organised to support people in Beirut and southern Lebanon, affected by recent bombings from Israel.

A sweet smell is arising from the cakes lying on the table in the Sports hall, and Arabic music is playing in the back. While handing a cake to a student, Noor Kanaan of the Arabs Association explains that she introduced the idea of a fundraiser for Lebanon during the association’s first meeting, held just two days before the sale. “It was a very last-minute decision”, Noor explained.

The members received approval to host the fundraiser only a day before it took place. Noor explains that ‘spreading awareness’ about the situation in Lebanon is important for the association. She adds that all the money collected will be donated to the Lebanese Red Cross, which called for financial support.

On the table, typical middle east dishes msemen (Moroccan crepes) and pistachio baklava sat alongside more familiar snacks such as crisps, donuts, and energy drinks. Around fifteen students are present, chatting in English and in French, some of them coming straight from the gym with their sports towels still on their shoulders. “When we see European people show up and support our action, it gives faith in humanity”, adds Noor.

Two hours into the sale, they already raised 200 euros, and the association is delighted by the support manifested by students.