Distribution of Essential Supplies in Gaza
The violent conflict in Israel and Gaza is heartbreaking. Thousands of civilians are dead, and many more are injured or displaced. Our hearts are with everyone affected. As international institutions, governments, and civil society call for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, we are facing a humanitarian crisis.
Violence has displaced hundreds of thousands of Israeli and Palestinian people. Blockades are preventing goods from going into Gaza, leaving families without shelter, food, water and medicine. Infrastructural damage limits internet access, roadways and health center operations. It has been more than one month since Israel intensified bombing in the Gaza strip, and the death toll has now surpassed 11,000, including more than 4,600 children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The 2.2 million Palestinians who remain are trapped in the region with limited contact with the rest of the world. Essentials such as water, food, fuel, and medical supplies have largely stopped coming in; only a small stream of supplies is being allowed through the Egyptian border.
Peace Winds is maintaining contact with two Palestinian staff members in Gaza City. To date, our teams have provided packages of essential goods to 1,060 families, a total of 6,900 individuals, living in temporary shelters and elementary schools. To distribute goods to families in need, Peace Winds has worked with a local supermarket and a Palestinian NGO, Unlimited Friends Association (UFA). Relief packages contain fresh food, canned goods, and personal hygiene supplies. We are especially focused on aiding vulnerable groups such as the disabled and families headed by single mothers.
Shortly after the crisis began, Peace Winds also provided food to an additional 450 families in central Gaza. A poultry farm near the Bureij refugee camp was running out of food and water to care for its animals, so Peace Winds stepped in to buy the 1,000 remaining chickens and distribute them to families in need.
Peace Winds will continue to work with staff members and partners on the ground to provide aid to civilians in need in Israel and Gaza, including immediate emergency relief–food, clean water, medical supplies, and shelter–when blockades allow for the movement of supplies. We appreciate your continued support.
