Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Jerusalem (Agenzia Fides) - In the Gaza Strip, a territory marked by poverty, marginalization, and neglect, Caritas Jerusalem is offering assistance, a source of new hope for the people.
In January 2009, when the Israeli army launched its offensive against Gaza, thousands of families found themselves in the Strip were left without water, food, shelter, and access to medical care. In response to this crisis, Caritas Jerusalem has mobilized its resources, collecting more than 1.4 million Euros in aid projects for Gaza, which today are bearing their first fruits.
As stated in a note sent to Fides, over 10,000 families have received emergency relief goods such as essential food, sanitation kits, and medical assistance.
Currently, given the continuing blockade imposed by the Israeli Army, only some health products and very few selected items can enter Gaza.
Caritas Jerusalem has made great efforts in the field of health care in rehabilitation for the injured, ensuring the provision of orthopedic prostheses and wheelchairs, which have benefited over a thousand people who have been maimed by the war.
All the patients are showing a renewed desire to live, to resume their activities, to work and contribute to their family, in spite of their pain and physical conditions of disability, Caritas workers say, underlining the importance of restoring hope to the long-suffering people of the Gaza Strip. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 15/12/2009)
