In light of the questions arising, we aim to provide clarity and transparency. Here are some essential points to address your queries:
1. How does WF-AID deliver aid in Gaza?
WF-AID has worked both project based and periodically to deliver aid into Gaza for many years. For the current emergency, it’s important to note that our partners are currently facing significant challenges in importing products into the Gaza Strip. Therefore, we are in constant touch with our on-ground agencies about the pledged amounts we have raised. Accordingly, they are diligently working to procure and distribute essential supplies that can be sourced locally based on the budgets we have provided them. Some of them have been able to receive funds and others will let us know as soon as they can receive.
So far, we have distributed food aid, water, medical aid and fuel to the local Palestinians, and the distributions are continuing as we speak.
Fuel is being provided to supply hospitals with energy for the generators, as well as petrol for ambulances and emergency vehicles.
Despite the dire situation on the ground, our ground partners are continuing with the distributions of water, medical aid, food packs, as well as cooked meals.
However, the local resources are limited and this is not a sustainable situation. Our ground partners are engaged in discussions with the UN cluster and government representatives to explore the possibility of establishing a humanitarian corridor, potentially through Jordan or Egypt. Although, some trucks have started to cross the borders, it is no way close to the meet the need on the ground.
2. How long and how has WF-AID worked with its agencies?
We are working with recognised and authorised local ground partners in Gaza that we have worked since 2019 on a range of projects, including Ramadhan Relief, WASH and Ali Asghar Water Appear projects and Emergency relief, as well as educational supplies projects. We are also actively working with The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), with whom we have a working MOU.
We have been working with UNRWA since 2009 to deliver Winter relief, Ramadhan Relief, and WASH projects and continue to do so.
3. WF-AID through community efforts have delivered a desalination plant and trucks in Northern Gaza. How do these make a difference during this crisis?
In 2020, WF-AID had provided a desalination water plant and funded a water truck in the North of Gaza. Every subsequent year since, we have provided them with another water truck – totalling 4 water trucks as of 2023.
Prior to the recent escalations, WF-AID had accomplished meeting the need for clean drinking water for the whole north region of the Gaza strip.
This has served as a vital resource over the past few weeks. Whilst the water supplies were cut off in Gaza, this water desalination plant and water trucks continued to serve the locals in the name of Karbala’s baby hero Hadhrat Ali Asghar (a).
Now that the locals in the North region have been forced to evacuate, our water trucks were transported down to Gaza City and further down the south of the strip, and continues to distribute water to the locals. With the restricted access back into the North of Gaza, our ground partners are purchasing the water to refill the water trucks and distribute to the destitute locals.
4. How can you make a difference?
Donate towards the ‘Emergency Appeal’ on donate.wf.
Your donation, no matter the size, can be a beacon of hope for those struggling in Gaza. Every contribution goes a long way in providing crucial aid and resources to our affected brothers and sisters, including medical supplies, food, shelter, and support for the displaced.
The power of your generosity can transcend borders and bring comfort to those who have lost so much. By lending a helping hand, we can play a significant role in saving lives and fostering a sense of resilience and hope for a better future.
Amidst the turmoil of the Gaza Emergency, our hearts unite in a powerful prayer for the affected brothers and sister. May they find unwavering strength amidst the chaos, solace in solidarity, and the courage to face each day. Let love and compassion be their guiding light, illuminating even the darkest paths.