The ninth edition of the Stouh Beirut Telethon, hosted by journalist Dalia Dagher, successfully concluded in 2021 after nine hours of continuous live broadcast on OTV and multiple online platforms, raising $301,418 to support twelve of the most urgent humanitarian cases in Lebanon.
Despite the unprecedented economic and financial crisis, the telethon demonstrated the enduring generosity and solidarity of the Lebanese people at home and abroad. Dagher, founder and president of the Stouh Beirut Association, had initially expressed concerns about reaching the fundraising goal, emphasizing the importance of collective giving to assist families facing severe health and social challenges.
“Today, Lebanese humanity proved that it is still alive, even in the midst of darkness,” Dagher said, praising both children and adults who donated whatever they could, even the last of their resources, to support those in need. Contributions ranged from small sums to substantial donations, and the Lebanese diaspora played a crucial role in securing the final amount.
The telethon also highlighted in-kind donations, including furniture, food supplies, medical treatments, prosthetics, and other essential support. Artist Roy Abu Abdo contributed with symbolic sculptures, including one honoring Lebanese expatriates and another depicting the cedar tree, alongside a tribute to martyrs, reinforcing messages of hope, resilience, and patriotism.
Musical performances added a festive atmosphere, featuring national medleys by Rita Abi Hashem, Maria Azar, Amin Adbachi, and Eddy Said, with compositions by Fadi Abi Hashem, followed by Christmas songs performed by Nancy Nasrallah. Students from Hikmeh Brazilia School presented a special performance supporting one of the most critical cases, Anthony Najjar.
Throughout the broadcast, prominent figures from politics, media, business, and the arts participated in the telethon, including former ministers, parliamentarians, journalists, social activists, and celebrities, demonstrating a national effort to aid families in need.
Dagher concluded the telethon by thanking all donors, supporters, and the team behind Stouh Beirut, emphasizing that fundraising efforts would continue beyond the live event to ensure all twelve cases received full assistance.
The 2021 Telethon not only provided vital financial and medical support but also reinforced the spirit of community, hope, and generosity, proving that in Lebanon, even amid crisis, the human capacity for kindness and solidarity endured.