The flags in front of Brock University’s Schmon Tower will be lowered to half-mast on Wednesday, Aug. 12 in honour of those impacted by the explosion in the port of Beirut, Lebanon last week.

At least 150 people were killed, thousands injured and an estimated 300,000 people left homeless as a result of the Aug. 4 disaster.

Brock’s international student population includes numerous from Lebanon.

“With such a devastating event, there is a great likelihood that Brock students from Lebanon or those of Lebanese heritage will be personally affected by this tragedy,” said Camille Rutherford, Brock University Vice-Provost, Strategic Partnerships and International. “Our thoughts are with these students and the people of Beirut as they seek to respond and recover from this tragedy.

“In addition to our condolences, it is important for the Brock students affected by this disaster to know that Brock is here to support them during this time of grief and mourning,” she said.

Anyone in need of help dealing with this tragic event is invited to visit Brock’s Student Wellness and Accessibility Services website. Counselling is also available 24/7 through Morneau Shepell at 833-276-2533.

The Government of Canada has pledged $5 million to assist in Lebanon’s recovery, and is matching donations made to the Humanitarian Coalition until Aug. 24 up to a maximum of $2 million.