For years, Donia, a mother of seven in Akkar, North Lebanon, has dedicated herself to caring for her family, especially her youngest teenage son, who lives with autism and Down syndrome.
A safe home, a sense of relief
Their home, however, was not adapted to his needs. Everyday activities that should have been simple and safe were often difficult. The bathroom was a particular concern. The toilet seat was broken, and the shower space was not safe or accessible enough for him to use comfortably. Donia worried that he could fall or hurt himself while trying to manage on his own.
As her son grew older, helping him become more independent became one of Donia’s biggest priorities. But the condition of the house made this difficult. The lack of safe, accessible and organised spaces also affected the whole family’s daily routine, making it harder for the children to study, rest and carry out their activities comfortably at home.
“All I care about is his happiness and safety,” says Donia. “I used to dream of providing him with a bathroom he could use independently. My only concern is how he would manage if I am no longer here.”
The Norwegian Refugee Council’s (NRC) shelter team carried out minor rehabilitation works to make the home safer, more accessible and more suitable for the family’s needs. The bathroom was renovated, including making the shower space safer and easier to use. Windows, doors, walls, the kitchen and the entrance were also repaired, and partitions were installed to create more privacy and improve the family’s living conditions.
For Donia, these changes meant much more than physical repairs. They brought relief and peace of mind. Her son can now move more safely around the house and carry out daily activities with greater confidence and independence. The improvements also helped create a calmer and more comfortable home environment for the whole family.
“It’s not just about fixing a house,” Donia shares. “The support gave us comfort and peace of mind. It helped my son, and it helped our whole family.”
Safe and adequate housing is a foundation for protection, inclusion and hope. For Donia and her family, small changes inside the home have made daily life safer and easier.
This activity was made possible thanks to the support of the German Government through KfW Development Bank.
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