Give Good Notes to Lebanon’s Street Kids, says JWT

If giving money to homeless people is something that you are strongly against, then perhaps Lebanon’s latest initiative may change your mind.

Lebanese supermarket Bou Khalil and a local NGO (which has chosen to remain anonymous) have quashed public misconceptions that all homeless people are alcoholics and drug addicts by creating the Good Note – “a way to give children on the streets the things they need, with a clear conscience," says its website.

Each note holds a value of LBP1,000 – which is  the smallest note available in Lebanon and equivalent to about 46p.

The currency allows homeless people to use the voucher at the participating supermarket, although alcohol and cigarette purchases are exempt. Notes cannot be exchanged for cash.

Created by JWT MEA, the idea helps to put donator’s minds at ease, given that their donation can only be used on necessary supplies, such as food, water, household and hygienic products.

Local pharmacy Pharmalife, Hazmieh has also lent its support to the project by agreeing to accept the vouchers in exchange for medicines, but only when presented with a doctor’s prescription.

Over 25,000 notes have already been printed and they can be bought in stacks of five at any supermarket or pharmacy branch.

All profits generated from the project will go back into funding the NGO and helping to improve the lives of Lebanon’s street children.

Although the website admits that the hardest part of the initiative is educating the children about the project so that they accept the vouchers.

To find out more about the initiative, visit the website.