In search of ways to collaborate with the Ministry of Social Affairs through its programs for the benefit of our community, and introducing MAAK Association’s current and future projects, it was an honour to welcome His Excellency the Minister of Social Affairs, Dr. Hektor Hajjar, on the 11th of July 2023, accompanied by coordinators of the visit program, Mr. Adel Al-Shabaab and his wife Mrs. Lamise Mshantaf Al-Shabaab.

His Excellency Bishop Elie Bechara El-Haddad, H.E. Deputy Dr Michel Moussa, Governor Mr. Wissam Hayek, Mayors Mr. Emile Constantine and Mr. Antoine Abboud, as well as Mr. Joseph Khalil, Dr. Robert Khoury, and members of the association also took part in the visit.

The program was initiated with a mass at the sanctuary of the Lady of Mantara, Maghdouché, followed by a friendly gathering in the presence of Reverend Samir Nohra and Father Joseph Jabbour.

The Minister and the accompanying delegation, then, moved to “Georges and Janet Younan” community center, where they were received by the member of the Municipality council, Mr. Fouad Hanna, who gave a full account of what the aim of the center is. He also provided an overview of the charitable programs of the “Better Life Association” agenda which includes health and social services. Mr. Hanna also explained the important role of the ambulance and fire station localized in the center. And finally, he elaborated on how this center facilitated diverse operations during the COVID19 pandemic, during which Maghdouché was the first in rank all over Lebanon to face this pandemic. All with the personal support of the Mayor, Mr. Raif Younan, and his brother, Mr. Wassim Younan.

The visit was complemented by a tour in the old town provided by a brief summary of the history of each station. Then a session at “Diwaniyat Abou Hatem” was held where “MAAK association” was introduced with its goals and work approaches, along with the current workshop which aim is to develop the association’s structure within a formal institutional framework, in cooperation with Dr. Georges Hayek, our consultant for Administration and Management, and Dr. Aline Khalil Khoury, our consultant for Development and Social Affairs. On the other hand, a detailed presentation was made on the current and future programs of the Association, and the Minister showed great interest in the MADA project, which deals with the health and psychological well-being of older persons and their families. The board of MADA project are Dr. Lina Younan Sabbagh, Dr. Aline Khalil Khoury, Ms. Nada Nashef, and Ms. Rana Khoury who conduct detailed researches with extraordinary efforts.

After that, everyone took part in a “villageois” ambiance dinner at “Emm Jean” restaurant, where we were greeted with Emm Jean’s usual smile and distinguished gourmet touch.