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Four months after the conflict in the Gaza Strip, residents are still dealing with the repercussions of the war.

Despite ongoing violent exchanges between Israeli forces and militants, MRDF support is providing vital assistance to thousands of people.

December's 23-day Israeli offensive in the Gaza Strip left hundreds of thousands of people without running water and many more without power. Tens of thousands had to leave their homes and half of Gaza's 27 hospitals were damaged.

Destroyed clinic in Shijaia.
Photo by Mika Hentunen/
FCA-ACT International.

Despite the significant challenge of access to Gaza, MRDF's emergency partner, Action by Churches Together, has been working in the area since the early days of the crisis. Donations to MRDF's Gaza Appeal have helped to provide emergency food supplies and medical care to over 30,000 people since early January. With many hospitals and clinics unable to deal with the number of injured, this work was crucial.

MRDF supporters are currently helping to provide prenatal, postnatal and dental care to about 1,500 people each week. In addition, workers are giving milk, bottled water and protein biscuits to over 500 malnourished and anaemic under-fives every week.

As well as responding to urgent needs, MRDF is also supporting long-term work in the region. Over 2,500 families received grants to repair their homes and nearly 200 students have taken part in vocational training sessions.

Simeon Mitchell, MRDF's Fundraising Director, said: ‘The conflict in Gaza caused widespread devastation in a region that was already poverty-stricken and politically fragile. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, MRDF was able to respond to this dreadful humanitarian crisis and empower people to begin rebuilding their communities.'

The Gaza appeal is still open, and additional contributions will enable more of this vital work to take place.

Donations can be made by debit or credit card on 020 7224 4814, or by cheque, payable to “MRDF (Gaza emergency)”, posted to MRDF,
25 Marylebone Road, London NW1 5JR.

Taxpayers are encouraged to gift aid their donations where possible, adding a value of 28p to every pound they give, at no extra personal cost.