In response to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) and Education Above All (EAA) Foundation have joined hands to provide vital assistance for victims of the ongoing war.
Amid persistent hostilities since last October, the relief workers of QRCS have been tirelessly engaged in emergency humanitarian response activities inside Gaza. The new project involves distributing fresh food meals to internally displaced people (IDPs) and persons with special needs. At a total cost of $503,464, the distribution scheme has an overall target of 97,500 fresh meals over 30 days, or 3,250 meals per day.
So far, 61,750 beneficiaries have received essential sustenance under the project. Beyond immediate relief, the initiative also serves to create job opportunities for youth, reinvigorate the local economy, and support small-scale projects in the target areas.
The distributions are conducted across northern and southern Gaza, including Hayy Al-Nasr, Beit Lahia, Zarga, Jabalia Camp, and Rafah. Additionally, 1,100 winter blankets are planned to be distributed to affected people at IDP shelter centers, along with mental health and psychosocial support services (MHPSS).
Despite the great efforts of the project's team, numerous challenges have been encountered, ranging from the continuous bombing that limits mobility to fuel shortages hindering transportation and distribution. Tragically, two personnel lost their lives, as the field distribution teams are repeatedly targeted while working on the ground.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains alarming, with over 1.9 million Palestinians displaced, facing critical shortages of food, fuel, drinking water, and medicines. Urgent action is imperative to prevent a catastrophic famine and mitigate the risk of disease outbreaks, UN agencies warned.
In response to this humanitarian appeal for assistance, the joint efforts of QRCS, EAA, and local organizations in Gaza represent a vital step towards improving socioeconomic conditions in the blockade, where collaborative humanitarian action is desperately needed.