The humanitarian situation in Gaza is being made worse by a severe heat wave across the region. Most critically, clean water is in short supply and finding adequate shelter and shade in the excessive heat is nearly impossible for thousands of displaced women and their families.
To make matters more challenging, unsanitary conditions and lack of hygiene items are leading to the spread of diseases such as Hepatitis A and B. Children in particular are facing breakouts of scabies and lice.
Yet again, a so-called safe zone for civilians has become a target. Al-Mawasi, a tiny strip of coastal land where more than 100,000 Palestinians have been taking refuge (including some of our colleagues at Wefaq Society for Women and Child Care) was bombed this weekend. Designated as a "safe zone," Al-Mawasi is where many humanitarian aid organizations and field hospitals have set up since the evacuation of Rafah. AP has reported that 25 people were killed and 50 others were wounded in this latest attack.
While we are adjusting our emergency response to contend with the rising heat, this latest attack severely complicates Wefaq's efforts as they were operating an aid distribution center and shelter for displaced staff in Al-Mawasi.
The kitchen, physically located in Khan Yunis (a small distance from the attack), remains unharmed and we are hoping to resume distribution in the Mawasi area as soon as it is safe to do so. Your emergency donations will help us pivot during yet another time of fear and confusion. >>
In addition to prepared food, we are committed to providing crucial summer aid for women and their families:
- Safe drinking water
- Desalinized water for cleaning
- Meals from community kitchen
- Hygiene items and cleaning supplies
- Summer clothing
- Maternity kits
Wefaq also went forward with a recreational day to lift spirits, amidst the continued bombardment, as you can see in the photo below.
Thank you for your continued support!
In Solidarity,
Amani Mustafa
Country Director, Palestine
Women for Women International
