Dear Friend,
Since my last update on AFSC’s emergency response, famine was officially declared in Gaza. Violence in the West Bank, including Jerusalem, has drastically worsened. And the Israeli government launched a military takeover of Gaza City, killing dozens more Palestinians and forcibly displacing thousands more once again.
Our staff on the ground are among those who have survived bombings, repeated displacement, and hunger. Despite these attacks, they have continued to serve their communities. Their efforts are possible because of caring people like you. We remain grateful for your donations, advocacy, solidarity, and prayers.
In the last month alone, AFSC’s team in Gaza, working with local partners and volunteers, has provided:
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Hot meals for 40,315 people. Meals have been distributed through community kitchens, street outreach, and U.N. Relief Works Agency shelters. Fresh vegetables from local farmers we’ve supported made meals more substantial and helped us feed more families.
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456,000 liters of water—meeting daily needs for 43,000 people in areas where water systems have been destroyed.
- 115 hygiene kits for seniors who lack access to basic sanitation supplies.
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Recreational activities for 200 children and caregivers—providing moments of normalcy amid the ongoing crisis.
In the weeks ahead, AFSC’s team will continue doing all they can to save lives amid escalating violence. We are working with partners to maintain relief operations despite the many challenges. Humanitarian access remains severely restricted, and supplies are critically scarce. We know that the humanitarian situation will continue to deteriorate. But we are determined to do everything we can to help.
As a Quaker organization, AFSC opposes violence in all its forms. We work for a world where everyone can live in safety and peace and have all that they need to thrive. That vision compels us to act now.
Palestinians in Gaza cannot wait. Today, every voice is urgently needed to advocate for a ceasefire and unfettered humanitarian access in Gaza. Please join us in sending a message to Congress, and join our action hour every Friday to learn more ways to get involved.
Thank you for all the ways you support our work.
In peace,
