The constant demolition of homes undertaken by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have to date left thousands of Palestinians homeless, especially in Rafah. The military operation ‘Rainbow’ launched by the IDF in May in Gaza has brought the most intense destruction since the start of the Intifada. According to the UN-based information sources, some 4,000 people have been made homeless. They need urgent help with shelter, water and sanitation, food and medical assistance. The humanitarian agencies in Gaza are few, which puts the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees under enormous pressure and strain.

ACT member in Gaza, the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) working through the Near East Council of Churches (NECC) seeks the financial support to meet the immediate needs of the Palestinian families who lost homes in the recent military operation by providing emergency cash assistance. Their emergency response program is designed to assist some 1,500 destitute families who will not have received assistance from the UNRWA or other NGOs.

We thank our funding members for the solidarity and the timely support offered to the ACT members.

Project Completion Date:

31 December 2004

US$

Total Appeal Target(s): 185,289

Less: Pledges/Contr. Recd.: 0

Balance Requested from ACT Alliance: 185,289

Signed by:

Thor-Arne Prois
Director, ACT Co-ordinating Office