Nestled in the hills near Jerash in northern Jordan lies Gaza Camp, a place that carries the weight of history and the hopes of thousands of Palestinian refugees forced there following the Israeli Occupation of Gaza in 1967.  

Today’s blog explores the history, daily life, and ongoing challenges faced by the people of Gaza Camp, highlighting their resilience and the work of United Palestinian Appeal on the ground. 

The History of Gaza Camp  

Gaza Camp, also known as Jerash Camp, was established in 1968 to accommodate Palestinian refugees who were forcibly displaced from the Gaza Strip after the 1967 war.  

Similar to other Palestinian refugee camps set up in 1948, it was intended as a temporary solution, but the camp has since evolved into a more permanent settlement with concrete buildings, though the infrastructure remains inadequate. 

Life in Gaza Camp 

The camp is home to over 29,000 refugees living in densely packed conditions. The infrastructure struggles to keep up with the growing population, leading to overcrowded housing and limited access to essential services such as clean water, sanitation, and electricity. 

Education: Education is highly valued in Gaza Camp, with numerous schools operated by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). Despite the challenging conditions, students and teachers strive for academic excellence. Young people dream of using education as a pathway to a better future, both for themselves and their community, but many fall through the cracks due to overcrowding and lack of investments.

Healthcare: Healthcare services in the camp are provided by various NGOs. While primary medical care is available, residents often face shortages of medicines and specialized treatments. Chronic conditions and mental health issues are prevalent and exacerbated by the stress and trauma of displacement. 

Economic Challenges: Employment opportunities within the camp are scarce, leading to high levels of unemployment and poverty. Many residents rely on small-scale businesses, informal labor, and aid from international organizations. Women often play a crucial role in supporting their families through various entrepreneurial activities. 

Cultural Preservation: Despite the hardships, the residents of Gaza Camp maintain a strong sense of cultural identity and community. Traditional Palestinian customs, music, and dance are integral parts of life in the camp, serving as a link to their heritage and a source of strength and unity. 

The Role of UPA : Investing in a Community – UPA’s community Center 

Our Impact: UPA helps support the residents of the Gaza Camp . Through various initiatives focusing on university scholarships, healthcare services, and economic empowerment projects. We strive to improve the quality of life for many of our people, and to offer a glimmer of hope in challenging times.

• Health education and awareness: Sessions for older residents and their caregivers/families to ensure they have the knowledge and resources they need.
• Psychosocial support: Recreational and cultural activities for elders, including organized trips, cooking traditional Palestinian dishes, gardening, crocheting, and more.
• Home nursing care: Health management services provided to approximately 100 older residents in the camp, with care schedules tailored to individual needs.

Education: We are dedicated to offering educational opportunities for the youth of Gaza Camp by providing financial assistance to help cover tuition fees and organizing after-school programs that offer tutoring and additional resources to support academic success.

Gaza Camp in Jordan stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and hope amidst adversity. The history and daily life of its residents reflect the broader struggles faced by Palestinian refugees worldwide. By understanding and supporting Gaza Camp, we can contribute to a future where dignity, opportunity, and peace are attainable for all its residents. UPA remains committed to this mission, working tirelessly to uplift and empower our people in Gaza Camp.