Christian Aid’s Gaza Appeal relaunched

As the Middle East approaches the grim milestone of a year since the start of the most recent conflict, Christian Aid is re-launching its emergency Gaza Appeal to help those affected.

Generous supporters of the international development agency have already raised more than two million pounds to help people trapped by the situation across Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory.

But more is needed, to keep bringing hope and support to the millions of people struggling to survive and praying for peace. Christian Aid is asking supporters to give, act and pray – with the relaunch of its emergency appeal, an online vigil and monthly prayer meeting.

Head of Christian Aid Scotland Val Brown said: "Our supporters have already raised an enormously generous £2.2 million, which has helped us reach more than 800,000 people in Gaza. Our partners are providing psychological support, medical relief and community-led initiatives such as food, shelter, sanitation and cash. They have also helped Palestinians from Gaza who were receiving medical care or working in the West Bank and have been denied entry back. We recognise that Israelis are suffering trauma too and are working with partners to provide appropriate support.

"But the need is vast and there is more we can do which is why we are relaunching our Gaza Appeal. With the support and prayers of our supporters, Christian Aid can and will reach more people with the assistance they need."

Head of Middle East Policy & Advocacy at Christian Aid, William Bell, explained while aid is getting to people, a permanent ceasefire is the only way to work towards a sustainable peace and help people rebuild their lives.

He added: "Christian Aid is urging the UK Government to do all it can to advocate for the end of the occupation of Gaza, and the West Bank.

"All world leaders with influence should press for a full and permanent ceasefire to come into effect immediately. It remains the only serious option to avert further loss of civilian life and the deepening of this humanitarian catastrophe."

Christian Aid is calling on supporters to give, act and pray in solidarity with their global neighbours.

People can give via the Gaza Appeal where £5 can provide a displaced family with warm blankets and £20 can feed a family for a week by providing a food parcel of essentials such as oil and cheese.

They can act by joining Christian Aid's online Gathered Vigil at 8am on Monday 7 October (sign up via the website) and also by contacting their MPs, urging them to take action: calls to action.

And they can pray at the monthly Prayers for Peace in the Middle East online events. The next events are on 24 September and 24 October. To sign up, please visit: Prayers for Peace in the Middle East - Christian Aid.