Reports from the Ministry of Health and United Nations show that deaths due to starvation and malnutrition continue to rise daily. More than 2 million people are now in an area that is smaller than 17 square miles and 88% of the territory is under Israeli military control or evacuation orders.

Due to the rise in injury, trauma, and sickness, emergency rooms are filling, and many are surpassing their limits. Additionally, safe shelter is limited due to forced displacements, limited shelter materials, damages and loss, and harsh living conditions.

In the West Bank, Israeli attacks have intensified, displacing approximately 35,969 Palestinians since January 2024. Humanitarian aid access in this region continues to be difficult. The limited aid that has been allowed in recent months is much lower than what is needed to sustain the people.

In the face of challenges, Catholic Relief Services and their partners have brought food, water, shelter, sanitation, monetary assistance, and psychosocial support to 1.7 million people in Gaza since 2023. The Church has a historical and cultural presence in Gaza, and this is now even more important. CRS’ partners are present within the community as trustworthy sources, operating in dangerous conditions. Even following the bombing of a church in Gaza, missionaries and partners continue to serve those in need. CRS additionally has 110 staff members in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza.

Work with these communities, the local Church, and their partners enable their response in the region. Urgent needs include:

• Safe and Dignified Shelter and Housing
  • Since October 2023, CRS and their partners have provided shelter assistance including bedding, living supplies, tarps, tents, and shelter repair kits to 341,790 people.
• Food and Cash Assistance
  • Since October 2023, CRS and their partners have provided food and cash assistance to 1.72 million people.
• Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene
  • Since October 2023, CRS and their partners have provided clean water, latrines, hygiene, and sanitation kits and supplies to 500,268 people.
• Psychosocial Support
  • Since October 2023, CRS and partners have provided psychosocial support to 10,399 children and adolescents, and 1,333 caregivers.

Support for Church Partners in Gaza

CRS continues to support Church partners in Gaza as they operate as temporary shelters. They assist with hygiene items, monetary assistance, clothing, tarps, and other goods. This provides an opportunity to uphold human dignity even amid the current context of the region.

You can help Catholic Relief Services with the work that they do to support those that are impacted by conflict in Gaza:

Donate online:  

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

Donate by phone:  

1-877-HELP-CRS (435-7277)

Donate by check:  

Catholic Relief Services

Holy Land Response

P.O. Box 5278,  

Tipton, IA 52772