Organization
SESOBEL(SESOBEL)
Lebanon's foremost non-governmental organization for children and youth with disabilities, founded in 1976. Based in Aintoura in the Kesrwan district, SESOBEL provides residential, educational, therapeutic, and autism-specific services to approximately 1,000 beneficiaries annually.
About
SESOBEL — the Social Service for the Welfare of Lebanese Children — was founded in 1976 by Yvonne Chami in Aintoura, Lebanon. For nearly five decades it has been a cornerstone of disability care in Lebanon, operating as a non-governmental, non-sectarian institution with an international reputation for quality. SESOBEL has received recognition from disability organizations worldwide for its innovative therapeutic programs and its resilience through Lebanon's many crises.
What They Do
SESOBEL operates residential and day programs, special education schools, physical and occupational therapy services, and Lebanon's first specialized autism center. The organization serves approximately 1,000 children and young people each year through individualized programs across its Kesrwan campuses. SESOBEL also conducts practitioner training and contributes to disability research, supported internationally by American Friends of SESOBEL.
Who They Serve
SESOBEL serves children and youth with physical disabilities, intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and complex support needs. Many beneficiaries come from economically disadvantaged families, and the organization maintains accessible fees to ensure no child is turned away — especially important given Lebanon's severe economic deterioration since 2019.
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