Jamila’s and Habbouba’s stories
Two women talk about their stay at the Caritas shelter in Lebanon for survivors of gender-based violence.
One day, Jamila decided to run away from her abusive husband. Together with her children, she arrived at a shelter for survivors of gender-based violence which Caritas Denmark and Caritas Lebanon run in Lebanon with support from Danida.
“I was so exhausted when I arrived at the shelter. No words can describe what I went through. The social workers at the shelter asked me what I needed. I replied that I just needed to sleep,” she says.
Unfortunately, Jamila’s story is far from unique. Many women in Lebanon have experienced gender-based violence. Oftentimes, the perpetrator is a relative or a partner.
“I endured seven years of torment before I fled from my husband with my children,” says Habbouba. Like Jamila, she has sought refuge at the Caritas shelter where about 20 women live with their children. “We didn’t even have time to take any of our belongings with us.”
Gardening makes the women feel better
At the shelter, the women receive psychological first aid, care, and legal assistance. They also receive training aimed at improving their skills in gardening and tailoring so that they are better equipped to find work when they leave the shelter. One of the ways they do this is by working in the garden next to the shelter.
The women are paid for their work which provides the shelter with fresh, organic vegetables. At the same time, they are introduced to different gardening methods. They say that the time they spent in the garden helps them deal with trauma and negative thoughts and increases their confidence and independence.
“I find it mentally relaxing to be in the garden, and it is nice to earn some money. When I leave the shelter, I will use the money to support my family,” says Jamila.
“During my stay at the shelter, I have acquired different skills such as knitting, sewing and gardening,” Habbouba adds. “Previously, I was worried about whether I could provide a decent life for my children. I am no longer worried because I am now better suited to take care of myself.”
To protect the women, the shelter is located at a secret address. For the same reason, Jamila and Habbouba are made-up names, although their real names are known to Caritas Lebanon.
In the coming year, Caritas Denmark, together with Caritas Lebanon, will expand the activities at the shelter so that they also include survivors of trafficking.
