press releases 2009

U.S. Government pledges an additional $30 million for the reconstruction of Nahr Al-Barid and relief for the displaced

July 20, 2009

Ambassador Michele J. Sison announced today the United States Government’s intent to provide an additional $30 million in 2009 to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for the reconstruction of the Nahr al-Barid Palestinian refugee camp.  This assistance will improve the lives of thousands whose homes and businesses were destroyed and whose livelihoods were negatively affected by the fighting two years ago this summer. 

$25 million will be used for reconstructing the Nahr al-Barid camp.  The remaining $5 million will provide assistance to the displaced by supplying food, health care, shelter, access to basic education, and improved water and sanitation services while the camp is being reconstructed.

With this $30 million contribution, the United States will have provided more than $186 million to UNRWA in 2009.  The United States remains committed to continuing our longstanding partnership with UNRWA in support of Palestinian refugees in Lebanon, including those displaced from Nahr al-Barid.