Like many of you, I was horrified by the devastation in Lebanon earlier this week. The port explosion dealt an appalling blow to the people of Beirut, killing more than 150 and injuring thousands.

On behalf of all at Global Heritage Fund, I express my deepest condolences to the people affected. In addition to the human suffering and lives lost, I mourn the many cultural institutions now facing severe damage and monumental repairs.

As an international cultural heritage organization, Global Heritage Fund stands in solidarity with the Lebanese people. Beirut is renowned for its cultural heritage and enduring history, and we stand with them today. We pledge to contribute all that we can to the recovery of culture and heritage in Beirut, and we keep the communities affected at the forefront of our thoughts.

We are urgently raising funds for our partners in Lebanon. Please donate now to support the relief efforts: give.globalheritagefund.org/solidarity

Wishing you safety and health,

Nada Hosking
Executive Director
Global Heritage Fund

Photo © Hussein Malla/AP