The first SOS Children's Village was founded in Tyrol, Austria, in 1949, in the aftermath of the Second World War. The founder, Mr. Hermann Gmeiner, a child welfare worker, was devastated by the large numbers of orphaned and abandoned children. He believed they urgently needed a home that provides love and security
is based on four principles, essential to the safe development of every child
Bhersaf (Metn); Sferai (South); Kfarhay (North); Ksarnaba (Bekaa) In addition, to the one youth home for young men between the ages of 15 and 18 located in the city of Byblos
Each SOS child has an SOS mother. She is the primary caregiver who lives with her SOS children and secures the homey atmosphere they were deprived of
Each SOS child has SOS brothers and sisters. They share the joys of family life and build lifelong relationships with each other
Each SOS child lives in an SOS"home.". Home is where the children grow up within their families like any regular family, sharing meals around the dining room table, watching television in the evening, and going to sleep at night in a warm, cozy bed.
The children grow up in an SOS village. This is where the children build their first experience towards a healthy social life. In the village, the children receive the support and assistance of the village director and a specialized pedagogical team.