In honor of Palestinian Mother’s Day, we would like to recognize all the Palestinian mothers working hard for their families, especially those in refugee camps.

Every day, members of our team meet people on the ground and get to know them as individuals. We meet mothers like Amna, who lives with her family in a small housing unit in Gaza Camp. Amna has spent her life caring for others while working long hours at a local grocery store. She continues to work even though she was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis a few years ago and now has trouble standing and sitting.

Through it all, Amna maintains a positive outlook on life; her motto is, “from suffering comes hope.” Her attitude mirrors the outlook of many Palestinians in Gaza and Hittin Camp, who even in their dark circumstances, still find ways to create a sense of community.

“My soul is attached to it [the camp], despite all the challenges and hardships,” Amna said.

This spirit of loving life is what drives UPA’s work. Whether it is delivering food parcels during Ramadan, distributing kerosene to families like Amna’s in the winter, supporting children’s projects or health care facilities—UPA is committed to alleviating the suffering of all Palestinians.

Your gift today will help us reach even more Palestinians.

In the spirit of loving life, Mother’s Day is one of Amna’s favorite days of the year because it allows her to escape the camp’s hardships and spend quality time with her daughter. Last year, her daughter Isra borrowed money and gifted Amna a red teddy bear.  The bear still resides in the corner of her housing unit, accompanied by only a mattress on the floor.

“I hope one day, I will be able to buy something special for Isra and make her feel the happiness I feel every time she makes an effort to express her appreciation to me,” Amna said.

Thank you, mothers, for your selflessness and generosity.

Happy Palestinian Mother’s Day.

–The UPA Family