Pillar 1: HEALTH-NUTRITION-PROTECTION Support vulnerable beneficiaries in conflict-affected areas of South and Nabatieh governorates to access essential health, nutrition and protection services ltpgtThis project, unique in its approach, is a direct response to the conflicts affecting South Lebanon. It aims to enhance access to essential health, nutrition, and protection services for displaced persons in emergency shelters, those hosted by families, and residents of conflict-affected areas. Through close coordination with relevant sectors, the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), and other partners, the project will address critical needs within these regions.ltbrgtThe project's key activities will include:ltbrgt	Improving access to primary healthcare for 11,000 vulnerable beneficiaries by supporting three Primary Health Centers (PHCCs) in Nabatiyeh and establishing a Primary Health Care Satellite Unit (PSU). IOCC's support will focus on providing subsidized PHCC services, prioritizing maternal and child health, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and overall wellness following the Long-term Primary Healthcare Subsidization Protocol (LPSP) set by MoPH and the LRP logframe. IOCC will establish a PSU to deliver essential medical care directly to conflict-affected areas, ensuring accessibility for the most vulnerable residents unable to reach healthcare services.ltbrgt	Facilitating access to life-saving hospitalization services for 216 high-risk pregnancies, vulnerable infants, and children in South and Nabatiyeh.ltbrgt	Providing integrated nutrition and Early Child Development (ECD) services to 12,000 beneficiaries at community and PHC levels: This includes offering integrated services for nutrition and ECD counseling, Social Behavior Strategies focusing on promoting optimal Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF), ECD, and responsive care practices. These services will be provided through Mother-Baby Corners (MBCs), established in the 3 supported PHCs and outreach activities. The project will include screening and growth monitoring as part of essential services in supported PHCCs and outreach efforts, along with the distribution of Emergency Nutrition Rations to prevent stunting, micronutrient deficiencies, and anemia among vulnerable populations. The project will deliver malnutrition treatment services through 1 supplementary PHC and the PSU, ensuring comprehensive support for vulnerable mothers and infants throughout the targeted communities.ltbrgt	Delivering MHPSS activities to 420 individuals through the establishment of peer support groups in the South and Nabatiyeh areas, which will provide essential psychosocial support to those affected by conflict-related trauma and stress.ltbrgtlt/pgtltpgtIn preparation for this project, IOCC has fostered a strong collaboration with the MoPH to address gaps in service delivery amidst the ongoing situation. The selection of PHCs was conducted in coordination with the MoPH PHCC coordinator in Nabatiyeh, leveraging facilities that had previously received support from IOCC under previous projects, building on previous efforts. IOCC has actively engaged with relevant central and regional sectors to ensure that the activities are aligned with their priorities, demonstrating a comprehensive and strategic approach.  ltbrgtIOCC has been actively involved in the Southern region, playing a significant role in emergency response initiatives. Presently, IOCC is in the preparation phases for a new project in partnership with UNICEF, which will have a national scope and encompass the Southern region as well. These coordinated efforts will complement each other to bridge gaps and ensure that essential services reach vulnerable populations, particularly those in conflict-affected areas.ltbrgtIn summary, the project activities represent a holistic approach to improving the well-being and resilience of vulnerable populations in conflict-affected areas. By addressing critical gaps in healthcare, nutrition, and protection, the project aims to mitigate the impact of ongoing conflicts and contribute to the long-term stability and recovery of affected communities.ltbrgtlt/pgt