Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

Background

The humanitarian crisis caused by Israel's 22-day attack on Gaza, which began on December 27, 2008, is the latest manifestation of long-standing hostilities and violence between Palestine and Israel. A political framework for a negotiated solution is necessary to end this conflict and achieve a durable and just solution.

Writing about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been described as contending with two narratives that are incredibly divergent and ill at ease with one another. Unraveling these tangled narratives and achieving genuine peace will require patience and commitment from all who seek a negotiated solution to the conflict.

Read more about the crisis in Gaza and the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Today, the entire population in Gaza remains deeply affected by a severe crisis that by any humanitarian standard is an affront to human dignity.

Water and sewage systems are damaged, and supplies for repairs are not allowed to enter Gaza. Similarly, homes and buildings destroyed in the recent violence remain in disrepair, and reconstruction materials are not allowed in. Many farmers are denied access to their lands, and fishermen have very limited access to the sea.

People with serious medical concerns are unable to receive the care they need because of a lack of needed medical supplies in Gaza or, when they seek medical care elsewhere, due to delays at checkpoints. The small amount of food being allowed into Gaza is inadequate to sustain a life of dignity.

UUSC's Approach

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza compelled UUSC to open the UUSC Gaza Humanitarian Crisis Fund in January 2009. UUSC is now partnering with two sister organizations, American Friends Service Committee and YouthBank, to support innovative work with youth groups in communities deeply affected by the recent conflict and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Nearly half of the population in Gaza is young people whose lives have been shaped largely by violence. Their very challenging life circumstances can lead to disappointment and despair. Yet, young people are capable of becoming positive actors and leaders if their hopes and dreams for future opportunities and positive change are nurtured. They can be part of reestablishing some normalcy of daily life in Gaza.

Through the Gaza Humanitarian Relief Fund, UUSC is working with partners in Gaza to:

• Build the capacity of 30 young men and women to provide community-based counseling in areas particularly affected by the humanitarian crisis.
• Work with 250 youth and 75 mothers from 10 communities to explore and find ways to individually and collectively manage stress.
• Identify and work together with at least 30 vulnerable families to make small-scale repairs to homes to make them habitable again.

Together, and with your generous support, we are acting in solidarity with courageous young people in Gaza who are making a positive difference in their own lives and in their communities.

Support the UUSC Gaza Humanitarian Relief Fund today.