Location:
Al Galilee camp (recognized by UNRWA as Wavel camp) is located at the Southern entrance of Ba’albek city in the North Eastern Beqaa valley.
History:
This camp was established inside the military barracks used by the French Army during the French Mandate. It was deserted until 1948, at which point up-rooted Palestinians secured refuge there. According to UNRWA figures the population of this camp is approximately 7,551. The majority of these families originating from Northern Palestine, specifically from 15 different villages: Sa'asa, Safouriyeh, Loubya, Farada, Alkassayer, Alyajour, Wa'arahAsaryis, Wadi Al-Hamam, Hitine, Hawasa, Al-Jaouna, Fara'am and Balad Al-Shiekh.
CAMP CONDITIONS
I. Social Conditions:
Inhabitants of Al Galilee camp are in general conservative people whom are still preserving the old Palestinian customs, - they tend to care for and help each other as much as possible. Similar to the situation in other camps, most of the social problems are a result of poverty, lack of education, high unemployment and marginalization.
II. Economic Conditions:
The population of this camp suffers from an extremely difficult economic situation. Most inhabitants are dependent on the seasonal agricultural sector which ceases during the harsh winter, while others work in the construction sector which is also weak during winter due to the extremely cold and snowy weather. In addition to this, the lack of industrial activities in this area and its remote location from the economically active cities increases the unemployment rate in the camp, forcing many young men to emigrate, mainly to Germany and Denmark.
III. Housing Conditions
Because the camp was established in old military barracks that have not been renovated or maintained for numerous decades, the buildings are in poor repair and most homes are unhealthy environments. They lack sunlight and are constantly in a dark and humid condition due to poor ventilation.
Beit Atfal Assumoud Center:
The center was established in 1987 in an attempt to help families who lost their primary financial provider and also to offer a range of activities for the children, youth and women. The center began functioning in a single rented room inside the camp and for 16 years continued operating in this fashion until the necessary funds were secured through VereinFuer Die Unterst, a Swiss NGO for the support of disadvantaged Palestinian children, to construct its own center, to which NISCVT moved in February 2005. The new building consists of two spacious stories with several rooms and a hall for general activities and now we start construction of second floor aiming at building remedial classes in the center. The staff includes two social workers five teachers, a special teacher for school drop outs students and a cleaning lady.
Programs and Projects
1.Family Happiness Project (Sponsorship)
2.Remedial classes
3.Drop-outs class
4.Embroidery
5.Reproductive Health and Peer Education
6. Solidarity Stitches Group from Finland