ActionAid Palestine Supports the Distribution of Dignity Kits and Hygiene Supplies in Gaza

Gaza Strip – Occupied Palestinian Territories – As part of its efforts to support increasing humanitarian needs, ActionAid Palestine has supported the distribution of dignity kits and hygiene kits in partnership with the Wefaq Association for Child and Woman Care in Rafah and Khan Younis governorates.

This initiative aims to enhance health protection measures and improve personal hygiene conditions for displaced families and women, amid the worsening health and living conditions resulting from the war, which has continued for over 15 months since October 7, 2023.

The Gaza Strip has been facing a severe water shortage since October 7, 2023, with 70% of its vital water infrastructure damaged or destroyed due to war. This drought has led to a deterioration in public health, making children the most vulnerable group. Even when water is available, it is often contaminated, leading to the spread of diseases such as diarrhea and vomiting. The consumption of polluted salty water poses serious health risks, including high blood pressure, kidney diseases, an increased risk of strokes, and gastrointestinal disorders that may result in severe dehydration, particularly affecting brain tissues.

Additionally, the rapid spread of infectious diseases, such as hepatitis, diarrhea, and vomiting, has been exacerbated in Gaza, especially in overcrowded areas where displaced people have sought refuge. Elderly individuals and those with preexisting health conditions face heightened risks, which may lead to fatalities due to these diseases.

Under these dire circumstances, there is an urgent need for hygiene and sanitation supplies, particularly for women. These essential supplies contribute to strengthening protection systems, restoring a sense of security, and rebuilding social support networks that have been disrupted due to displacement. Despite ongoing efforts, humanitarian needs remain immense, with thousands of women and girls experiencing severe insecurity, alongside a critical shortage of shelter, privacy, clean water, sanitation, and healthcare services.

About ActionAid International

ActionAid International is a global federation working with over 41 million people in more than 72 of the world’s poorest countries. We strive for a just and sustainable world where everyone has the right to a dignified life, freedom, and a world free from poverty and oppression. Our mission is to achieve social justice, gender equality, and the eradication of poverty.

ActionAid Palestine began its operations in Palestine in 2007, committed to strengthening the resilience of the Palestinian people and advocating for their right to freedom, justice, and self-determination. The organization implements various programs by engaging with Palestinian communities, youth groups, and women’s organizations. It aims to empower women and young people, enhance their civic and political participation, and help them understand their rights while engaging in collective action to address human rights violations caused by prolonged occupation. Additionally, ActionAid Palestine works to build leadership capacity and support active citizenship by holding authorities and other responsible entities accountable.

For More Information, Please Contact:

Riham Jafari
Communications and Advocacy Officer, ActionAid Palestine
Mobile: +972 595242890
Email: Riham.Jafari@actionaid.org