Gaza

For more than two years, 80% of Gazans have been dependant on food aid. Raw materials, supplies, goods, and people have been prevented from entering Gaza.

With the border virtually sealed, Israel launched a military offensive Operation Cast Lead on 27 December 2008. By January 18, when a cessation of violence was declared, 1,393 Palestinians — 347 of them children — and thirteen Israelis, had been killed.

One year later, the 750,000 children living in Gaza face huge challenges in rebuilding their lives. Thousands are living with their families in cramped, makeshift shelters or in the homes of relatives. They have lost their belongings, such as clothes, toys and books. Many have not seen a doctor or nurse during the past year. More than half the families have no regular access to clean water.

We’ve provided food parcels and implemented “cash-for-work” activities for households. We’re working in preschools and providing psychological support to children, creating ‘safe places’ where they can play, draw and express themselves. So far we’ve worked directly with 26,500 children.

We need your support to help us meet the most critical needs of the children and families in Gaza.

  
Find out more 

Look at the photo story of Gaza produced by Paolo Pellegrin, world-renowned Magnum photographer, for Save the Children.