Children in Gaza

Children in Gaza

In the world of dreams, children everywhere envision bright futures, guided by the love and support of their families. But for kids in Gaza, "dreams" mean something different.

Let's take a peek into the lives of two brothers, Wasseem and Omar, captured in a photo during Eid El-Fitr in 2024. Their lives took a sudden turn when they had to leave their home with their parents, heading south due to danger.

These boys didn't understand what war meant or why they had to leave everything behind. Their mom, Aya, couldn't even grab clothes or food for them in the rush. "We thought we'd be back soon," she says, "but it was too dangerous to stay."

Now, Wasseem misses his favorite toy, and Omar wonders about the shoes he got just before they left. It's tough for their parents too. Mohammed used to run a shop selling coffee and different spices, but now they're living in a tent with nothing.

This bustling shop was the heart of the neighborhood, especially during Ramadan. People flocked to Mohammed's store, drawn not just by the products but by his kindness and generosity to all who visited. Mohammed had big plans to expand his business, even dreaming of opening a new branch in a different part of town.

But life had other plans. Forced to leave with his family, Mohammed couldn't even check on his shop afterward. He doesn't know if it's still standing or if everything, he worked for is gone. Now, his focus is on providing the essentials for his wife and kids, navigating a new reality far from the dreams he once had.

In the midst of all this upheaval, the innocence of childhood is shaken. But there's still hope in the resilience of families like Wasseem and Omar's, showing that even in tough times, there's a glimmer of light to hold onto.

"Children of Gaza Collecting their Dreams":

This story is just one of many in Gaza. The dreams of these children have shifted dramatically. Now, their priority is simply survival, ensuring the safety and well-being of their families. Some have even lost their parents, thrust into the role of caretaker at a young age. While kids elsewhere focus on school and play, those in Gaza line up for food, their innocence overshadowed by the harsh realities of life.

Photo Credit: Al-Quds Daily Newspaper (1)
In accordance with International Humanitarian Law, all civilians, including children, are entitled to equal protection during times of conflict. Recognizing their vulnerability and unique needs, children are afforded special protection (2). However, the reality for children in war-torn regions like Gaza starkly contrasts with these legal provisions. Shockingly, over 13,800 children have lost their lives since the onset of conflict, with this number tragically increasing by the hour. Many others remain missing, while countless families struggle to access basic necessities such as food, water, and shelter (3).
Amidst such dire circumstances, what is our duty to these vulnerable children?
Since 2016, Holy Land Dates has been steadfast in its commitment to allocate a minimum of 50% of our net profits to support the most vulnerable members of society. Through the generosity of our customers, fundraising initiatives, and guided tours to Palestine, we have contributed to the establishment of three schools, an orphanage, and three pediatric intensive care units at Al Makassed Hospital in East Jerusalem. These critical facilities offer life-saving care to the infants of Gaza and the West Bank.
In light of the ongoing crisis in Gaza, where access to food remains a fundamental human right, Holy Land Dates is taking action. Collaborating with Masjad Al-Falah, a modest donation of just £2 can make a significant difference by sponsoring a nutritious meal for the people of Gaza.
Your contribution will ensure that families in Gaza have access to wholesome meals, providing them with the sustenance needed to thrive. Each sponsored meal embodies an act of compassion and solidarity, offering hope to those enduring adversity.

Every donation, regardless of size, holds the power to profoundly impact the lives of individuals and families in Gaza. Through your generosity, we can collectively alleviate hunger and uphold the dignity of all. Join us in extending a helping hand and making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Together, let us forge a brighter future, rooted in compassion, justice, and solidarity. Donate today to stand in solidarity with the resilient people of Gaza.

If you want to make a donation, please follow the link below:

https://www.holylanddates.co.uk/pages/donation

 

(1) International Bureau for Children’s Rights (2010), ‘A Guide on International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law on Children in Armed Conflict’ available at: https://www.holylanddates.co.uk/ .

(2) CNN Staff (2024) ‘Israeli attacks in Gaza have killed at least 71 Palestinians since Wednesday. Catch up on the latest’, CNN. Available at: https://edition.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/israel-hamas-war-gaza-news-04-18-24 .

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