Aid for Gaza piling up at border says World Vision

Urgently needed aid is piling up at the border, as Israeli authorities continue to keep a tight grip on humanitarian access into Gaza says World Vision. 

World Vision began distributing food to 3000 people in Gaza today, and plans to deliver emergency aid to more than 100,000 people. But the agency warned of a deepening humanitarian crisis unless access is significantly improved to let urgent supplies in. 

“Aid is not getting in fast enough. We have urgent supplies waiting to be delivered but only a limited number of trucks are allowed to cross the border each day,” says Paul Ronald, Deputy CEO World Vision. 

“People are desperate for help. The compounding impact of recent fighting and the 18-month blockade has left thousands of children and families struggling to survive.” 

If humanitarian agencies get better access World Vision is ready to distribute 16000 family emergency kits, which include canned tuna and beef, vegetable oil, beans, lentils, tea, biscuits. The kits will support up to 100,000 people. The agency will also distribute 8000 blankets and 8000 hygiene kits. The first of these shipments, for more than 1144 families will supply enough food to last for up to three months. 

“We are also working with local agencies to distribute food vouchers to families. Each voucher can be redeemed at local suppliers in exchange for food to last three weeks. We’re also distributing information about the dangers of unexploded ordnance and how to recognise them as children risk mistaking them for toys.” 

World Vision calls on the Israeli Government to give aid agencies immediate and unrestricted access to Gaza so that urgent supplies can be delivered to thousands of Gazans struggling to survive in the aftermath of recent fighting. 

World Vision has been working in the region for 30 years. And donors support more than 23000 children in the West Bank and Gaza, including hundreds of children sponsored by Australians in Gaza. 

Australians can help Gazan people by donating to www.worldvision.com.au 
or calling 13 32 40 

Media Contact: Michelle Rice 0402 503 227 or Madeline Wilson 0429 418 353