In June 2012, and with the flow of Syrian refugees into Lebanon, more than 100 humanitarian committees and organizations joined efforts under the umbrella of the Union of Relief and Development Associations (URDA) in order to coordinate charity work in Lebanon, especially the support of Syrian refugees fleeing the plight of war and destruction in their home country.
Relief committees have worked across different Lebanese areas starting from Akkar, Tripoli, Beqaa area reaching Beirut, Saida and Iqlim al-Kharroub. The work sought to execute different medical, educational, and livelihood related projects aimed at restoring happiness for the displaced. On 19/9/2013, the Union obtained an official license,the first of its kind, as a union for relief and charity associations in Lebanon under License 1685 issued by the Ministry of Interior in Lebanon.