Hunger remains a pressing issue as access to food, water, and shelter are on a decline. Recent estimates state that if the situation does not improve within three months, those living in the Gaza Strip are at imminent risk of famine.

An estimated 1.9 million people—85% of the population in Gaza—are displaced, with many living on the streets without protection from the elements. These conditions are especially dangerous for children and pregnant women, people living with disabilities, and those suffering from illness or recovering from injury. 

Due to the decrease in access to basic necessities, infections and waterborne illnesses are on the rise and spreading rapidly. These are most dangerous for young children. Current efforts to provide aid are not able to meet the needs on this large scale.

The conflict has now expanded into West Bank and additionally into Lebanon where an estimated additional 72,437 people are displaced. In addition to the physical needs, there is an emotional toll on the people, causing despair, grief, and trauma. 

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is coordinating with partners across the region as well as the United Nations, civil society organizations, and humanitarian responders to meet the urgent needs of the people. They are working to continue to provide cash assistance, food, support for churches, shelter and hygiene supplies, and counseling support to those in the region that require assistance. CRS is also supporting Caritas Lebanon which is an organization that is providing cash, food, and hygiene kits to families there that are displaced.

The assistance that CRS and its partners provides has been immensely benefitting the region. They delivered 3,380 food parcels during a single week in December 2023, are supporting four churches in Gaza that temporarily shelter 850 people, have distributed mattresses and mats to 3,550 families, provided bedding to 1,360 families, prepared shelter kits for 480 families, and are prioritizing psychological support. They have also sent more than 30 trucks of supplies from Egypt and plan to send more as they as access allows.

“We pray for our heroic staff in Gaza, many of whom are displaced, mourn the loss of loved ones and fear for their lives. We are indebted to their humanity at a time when their worlds are falling apart. They are supporting the most vulnerable within their community even as they and their families face immense hardships.”

Catholic Relief Services has been serving families in the Holy Land since 1961 and extend their support and solidarity to the lives of those throughout the Holy Land. They continue to work toward a future where people can live in a just and peaceful society.

You can help support CRS as they assist the local communities during this conflict:

Donate online:

Support.crs.org/donate/holy-land-conflict

Donate by phone:

1-877-HELP-CRS

Donate by check:

Catholic Relief Services Holy Land Response 

P.O. Box 5200

Harlan, IA 51593