Most of us, I’m sure, have felt misunderstood in our teenage years, the age of hormonal imbalance, acne, developing crushes, making plans for the future, everything feels new and uncertain. The experience is often incredibly isolating.
Around this time in 1976, 2,100 hectares of land owned by Palestinians in the Galilee were confiscated by Israel.
Recently, history was made when journalist and Masafer Yatta resident, Basel Adra, became the first Palestinian filmmaker to be awarded an Oscar for his film, No Other Land, a documentary, takes place in Masafer Yatta, a community in the occupied Southern West Bank.
Since October 7, more than half of Gaza’s essential water facilities have been severely damaged or destroyed, leading to an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.
For 78-year-old Hind, life in Gaza has been a series of silent struggles. Confined to a wheelchair and living alone in a partially destroyed home, her world was turned upside by the ongoing Israeli genocide of Palestinians in Gaza.
When Amal, UPA’s Regional MEAL Manager, called to follow up on a recent clothing voucher distribution, she expected a routine conversation. What she didn’t expect was to uncover a story that revealed not only a dire need for necessities but also a profound yearning for human connection.
On the other end of the line, Hind’s voice was soft but unwavering. Friends had helped her redeem the clothing voucher, as she couldn’t go out herself. But there was so much more to her situation.
“I don’t have anyone—no children to help me. I can’t walk or get anything on my own. I need adult diapers, medications, and food,” Hind shared. Then, in a quieter tone, she added, “Thank you for calling me. I’m just so happy to have someone to talk to. I’ve lost everything. I wish someone could visit me, even if just to say hello.”
Amal listened closely, moved by Hind’s vulnerability. It was clear that her needs went beyond food and medication—she was suffering from profound isolation. Amal knew that immediate action was needed.
A Lifeline of Support
Without delay, Amal escalated Hind’s case to UPA’s Senior Director of Field Operations, and soon after, UPA’s mobile medical team in Gaza City was dispatched to her home. Although the team typically serves nearby communities, Hind’s disability had left her hidden from their reach—until now.
When the team arrived at her door, they brought adult diapers and a hygiene kit. UPA’s psychosocial workers spent time speaking with Hind, offering her emotional support and the promise of regular weekly visits to ease her isolation. The team is also working to secure the medications Hind desperately needs, alongside plans to deliver a food parcel.
Beyond Essentials: The Power of Human Connection
What started as a routine check-in became a lifeline for Hind. The impact of that single phone call runs deep—not only has Hind been connected to essential resources, but she has also found solace in knowing that she is no longer alone. The promise of regular visits from UPA’s team provides not just practical support, but the human connection she had longed for.
Hind’s story reminds us that, sometimes, the smallest gestures—a call, a visit, a listening ear—can make the most profound difference. UPA remains committed to providing both the tangible essentials and the emotional support needed to uplift the most vulnerable members of the Palestinian community.
Samah Fadil is an Afro-Palestinian writer, editor, and translator who acresides in Tiohtià:ke/Montreal. Her words can be read in FIYAH, Palestine Square, Skin Deaep, Mizna, and more.
This article is a product of the ‘How to write your Nakba story?’ workshop hosted by the Institute for Palestine Studies (IPS) to commemorate 75 years of the Nakba, led by Laura Albast.
This article is a product of the ‘How to write your Nakba story?’ workshop hosted by the Institute for Palestine Studies (IPS) to commemorate 75 years of the Nakba, led by Laura Albast.
This article is a product of the ‘How to write your Nakba story?’ workshop hosted by the Institute for Palestine Studies (IPS) to commemorate 75 years of the Nakba, led by Laura Albast.