WASHINGTON, DC | unrwausa.org | December 2, 2014- UNRWA USA is proud to announce its partnership with KinderUSA to provide $20,000 USD worth of emergency non-food items to those displaced by the ongoing violence in Gaza. This generous contribution has helped UNRWA to provide over 1,179 foam mattresses to hundreds of families displaced throughout the Gaza Strip. 

This summer’s hostilities in Gaza left the people of Gaza facing heartbreaking death, destruction, and displacement. At the height of the crisis, approximately 300,000 innocent civilians were forced to leave their homes and all that they owned, seeking safe shelter in UNRWA schools. As of December 2, UNRWA continues to shelter over 23,338 displaced persons in 18 schools. The Agency continues to provide daily meals as well as essential non-food items including mattresses, blankets, hygiene kits, diapers, and other personal supplies to those sheltered in its facilities. For families who have lost everything, the mattresses provided by KinderUSA gave them the ability to sleep in comfort, despite the unprecedented challenges. 

UNRWA USA and KinderUSA’s partnership reflects KinderUSA’s dedication to protecting and assisting the children of Gaza during this devastating time. The needs of displaced Gazans are vast, but with the support of KinderUSA, UNRWA will continue to provide non-food items to alleviate the immense suffering and help begin the healing and rebuilding process. 

Dr. Laila Al-Marayati, Chairwoman of KinderUSA said, “KinderUSA is grateful for the opportunity to partner with UNRWA to provide assistance to the people of Gaza. Without the commitment and dedication of the UNRWA staff, the situation would be even more dire than it already is. We appreciate the support of the donors who made this effort possible.” 

“Knowing the massive need for emergency aid in Gaza, we are grateful to receive the committed support of KinderUSA. Thanks to Kinder, we were able to make a life-saving difference for Palestine refugees in Gaza, and we look forward to building upon this important partnership”, said Abby Smardon, Executive Director of UNRWA USA.