31 March 2017
More than two years on from Israel’s military offensive on Gaza in 2014, many families are still feeling the effects. Up to 53,000 people remain displaced after their homes were destroyed in the attacks. Some live in temporary caravans, cramped rented accommodation, or even amongst the rubble of their former houses.
Last week MAP distributed hygiene kits to families across Gaza, providing some of the basic essentials for maintaining dignity in times of distress, and helping to prevent the potential spread of communicable diseases.
Some of the families receiving the kits have been affected by recent winter storms, others have family members with disabilities or have limited sources of income.
After a decade of Israel’s blockade and closure, the unemployment rate in Gaza is 42%, and 40% of families live below the poverty line. Basic necessities such as those provided by these hygiene kits can therefore be vital support, offsetting the cost of other essentials such as food or water.
The hygiene kits include items for hand washing, bathing, washing clothes, looking after babies and young children, management of menstruation, and maintenance of food hygiene practices.
1,300 kits were provided thanks to a generous donation from an anonymous MAP donor.
They were distributed among all five of Gaza’s governorates, and specifically targeted those living on the eastern side near the borders, in areas such as Khuzaa, Johr El Deek and Shokah.
If you would like to support our work for the health and dignity of Palestinians across Gaza, the West Bank and Lebanon, please consider making a donation today:
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